What you have to prove
Show one of: (A) disorganization of motor function in two extremities with extreme limitation; OR (B) marked limitation in one of the four cognitive/social functional areas AND marked limitation in physical functioning; OR (C) significant interference in communication due to speech, hearing, or visual deficit.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Pediatric and adult neurology records, motor function assessments, cognitive testing, school IEP records, and occupational therapy evaluations.
Common misconceptions
Mild cerebral palsy affecting only one limb or causing only minor gait changes rarely qualifies. Spastic quadriplegia and severe athetoid forms typically meet 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.