What you have to prove
Show disorganization of motor function in two extremities with extreme limitation; OR marked limitation in one area of cognitive/physical functioning; OR meet criteria for 11.02 (seizures), 11.04 (stroke-like deficits), or 11.08 (spinal cord).
Medical evidence SSA expects
MRI confirming the tumor, neurologist and neurosurgeon records, treatment history, and functional assessments.
Common misconceptions
Meningiomas removed with full recovery rarely qualify. Large tumors, pituitary adenomas with hormonal effects, or tumors in eloquent brain areas causing persistent deficits more commonly qualify.
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.