What you have to prove
Show either (A) significantly subaverage general intellectual functioning (IQ-equivalent) AND significant deficits in adaptive functioning manifesting before age 22; OR (B) a full-scale IQ score of 70 or below on an individually administered standardized test AND significant deficits in adaptive functioning before age 22.
Medical evidence SSA expects
WAIS-IV or similar IQ testing, school records showing early onset, adaptive behavior scales (Vineland), and developmental history.
Common misconceptions
IQ testing after age 22 can still support the listing if developmental history shows lifelong impairment. 'Borderline intellectual functioning' (IQ 71-84) doesn't qualify on this listing alone.
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.