What you have to prove
Qualifying amputations include: (1) both hands; (2) one hand and one lower extremity with inability to ambulate effectively; (3) hemipelvectomy or hip disarticulation; or (4) one lower extremity with documented inability to use a prosthesis to ambulate effectively.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Operative report, prosthetic fitting records, gait-analysis notes, and VA or military service records if applicable.
Common misconceptions
Amputation below the knee with a working prosthesis often does NOT meet the listing — SSA considers most unilateral below-knee amputees capable of sedentary work.
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.