Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people in the United States, including both children and adults. While ADHD can cause difficulties in maintaining focus, completing tasks, and managing impulses, many people wonder: Is ADHD considered a disability? Can you get Social Security Disability benefits for ADHD?
If you’re living in California and struggling with ADHD symptoms that impact your ability to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, qualifying for disability due to ADHD requires medical documentation, evidence of significant functional limitations, and a strong legal approach.
This guide will explain how to get diagnosed with ADHD, ADHD screening for adults, and how to apply for Social Security for ADHD. We’ll also explore why hiring an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer, such as Peña & Bromberg, can increase your chances of approval.
Is ADHD a Disability?
Yes, ADHD is considered a disability under certain circumstances. While the condition itself is not automatically classified as a disability under the Social Security Administration (SSA), individuals may qualify for benefits if they can prove that their ADHD significantly impairs their ability to work.
ADHD is recognized under various laws, including:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Protects individuals with ADHD from discrimination in the workplace.
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) – Considers ADHD as a potential disabling condition if it causes severe functional impairments.
For children, ADHD is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book under Neurodevelopmental Disorders. However, for adults, it is evaluated under the broader category of mental disorders, requiring proof that symptoms make full-time work impossible.
How to Get Diagnosed with ADHD
A proper ADHD diagnosis is crucial when applying for disability benefits. Here’s how to get diagnosed with ADHD:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider – A primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist can assess your symptoms and refer you to specialists.
- Complete ADHD Screenings – Evaluations may include behavioral assessments, medical history reviews, and cognitive testing.
- Provide Evidence of Symptoms – Detailed documentation of your struggles in daily life and work can support your case.
- Undergo Continuous Treatment – Consistent treatment, such as medication or therapy, strengthens your disability claim.
ADHD screening for adults typically includes self-report questionnaires, cognitive tests, and clinical interviews. If you suspect ADHD is affecting your ability to work, getting an official diagnosis is the first step.
Can You Get Social Security for ADHD?
Yes, but it’s challenging. To qualify for Social Security for ADHD, you must prove that your condition:
- Severely limits your ability to work in a competitive job market.
- Interferes with daily activities such as concentrating, completing tasks, and maintaining employment.
- Requires ongoing treatment and medical intervention.
There are two types of Social Security benefits for individuals with ADHD:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Available to individuals who have paid into the Social Security system through work.
- Requires work credits based on previous employment.
- Must prove that ADHD prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Available to individuals with low income and limited resources regardless of work history.
- Applicants must meet strict financial requirements in addition to proving disability.
Many adults applying for Social Security for ADHD face initial denials, making legal representation essential for a successful appeal.
Qualifying for Disability Benefits with ADHD
To be approved for disability benefits due to ADHD, you must provide strong medical evidence showing that:
- ADHD symptoms prevent full-time work and limit your ability to function.
- You have significant impairments in attention, memory, and executive functioning.
- You have a history of treatment and therapy, including medication and counseling.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers the following factors when evaluating ADHD claims:
- Severity of Symptoms
- Does your ADHD cause extreme difficulty in focusing, organizing tasks, or following instructions?
- Are your symptoms resistant to treatment, including medication and therapy?
- Functional Limitations
- Can you complete work tasks efficiently?
- Do you struggle with time management, decision-making, or problem-solving?
- Medical and Work History
- Have you received consistent medical treatment for ADHD?
- Have you struggled with job loss due to your symptoms?
If you can demonstrate that ADHD significantly limits your ability to work, you may be eligible for benefits.
Challenges in Getting Disability for ADHD
Many applicants face difficulties when applying for Social Security for ADHD because:
- The SSA requires extensive documentation proving work-related limitations.
- ADHD symptoms are often subjective, making approval harder.
- High denial rates make the appeals process necessary for most claimants.
Since proving ADHD as a disability can be complex, hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer improves your chances of success.
Why You Should Hire Peña & Bromberg for Your ADHD Disability Claim
If you are struggling to secure Social Security benefits for ADHD, working with an experienced disability law firm like Peña & Bromberg can make a significant difference.
Here’s why Peña & Bromberg is the best choice for your ADHD disability case:
✔ Experienced Social Security Disability Attorneys – They specialize in SSDI and SSI claims for ADHD and other mental disorders.
✔ In-Depth Knowledge of SSA Guidelines – Their team understands what medical documentation and legal arguments are needed.
✔ Personalized Legal Assistance – Every case is unique, and they tailor their approach to fit your needs.
✔ Proven Track Record – Peña & Bromberg has helped numerous clients win Social Security Disability benefits.
Applying for disability benefits for ADHD can be overwhelming, but Peña & Bromberg will handle everything for you—from filing your claim to appealing denials.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward ADHD Disability Benefits Today
ADHD can have a profound impact on your ability to maintain steady employment. If your symptoms prevent you from working full-time, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits for ADHD.
However, applying for disability benefits is a complicated process, requiring strong evidence, legal knowledge, and persistence. That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced disability lawyer like Peña & Bromberg to maximize your chances of approval.
If you’re in California and need help securing Social Security benefits for ADHD, contact Peña & Bromberg today for a free consultation. Let our legal team fight for the benefits you deserve.
