What you have to prove
Show one of: (1) granulocytopenia with absolute neutrophil count of 1,000 cells/mm³ or less, AND recurrent systemic bacterial infections requiring IV antimicrobial treatment 3 or more times in 12 months, OR (2) red cell transfusions at least once every 6 weeks, on average, despite treatment.
Medical evidence SSA expects
CBC trends, bone marrow biopsy reports, transfusion records, infection cultures, and hematologist notes.
Common misconceptions
MDS patients on supportive care with occasional transfusions may not meet the transfusion frequency threshold. Higher-risk MDS with active transformation usually qualifies.
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.