What you have to prove
Meet listing via: (1) involvement of two or more organs with one at moderate severity AND two constitutional symptoms; OR (2) toe contractures or fixed deformity in one or both lower extremities; OR (3) fingertip contractures or fixed deformity in both hands with inability to perform fine and gross movements; OR (4) atrophy with irreversible damage in one or more extremities.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Rheumatologist records, skin scoring, pulmonary function tests, echocardiogram (PH screen), and capillaroscopy if performed.
Common misconceptions
Limited cutaneous scleroderma (CREST) with only mild Raynaud's rarely qualifies. Diffuse cutaneous with interstitial lung disease or pulmonary hypertension typically meets the listing.
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.