What you have to prove
Show nephrotic syndrome with anasarca persistent for at least 90 days despite prescribed treatment, AND (A) serum albumin of 3.0 g/dL or less, OR (B) proteinuria of 3.5 g/24 hours or more.
Medical evidence SSA expects
24-hour urine protein collection, serum albumin levels, renal biopsy results if available, photographs of anasarca, and nephrology treatment records.
Common misconceptions
Mild proteinuria doesn't qualify — the listing requires either severe hypoalbuminemia or heavy proteinuria AND generalized swelling that persists despite treatment.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.