11.00 is one of the largest categories in the Blue Book, and the criteria are some of the most clinically specific. From epilepsy seizure-frequency thresholds to MS disorganization-of-motor-function standards to ALS automatic qualification — there’s a specific test for each major neurological condition. The work in these cases is matching your specific diagnosis to the right sub-listing’s exact criteria.
What 11.00 covers
- 11.02 — Epilepsy
- 11.04 — Vascular insult to the brain (stroke)
- 11.06 — Parkinsonian syndrome
- 11.07 — Cerebral palsy
- 11.08 — Spinal cord disorders
- 11.09 — Multiple sclerosis
- 11.11 — Post-polio syndrome
- 11.12 — Myasthenia gravis
- 11.13 — Muscular dystrophy
- 11.14 — Peripheral neuropathy
- 11.17 — Neurodegenerative disorders (includes ALS)
- 11.18 — Traumatic brain injury
- 11.20 — Coma or persistent vegetative state
- 11.22 — Motor neuron disorders other than ALS
Listing 11.02 — Epilepsy
The seizure frequency thresholds, despite adherence to prescribed treatment for at least 3 consecutive months:
- 11.02A: Generalized tonic-clonic seizures occurring at least once a month for at least 3 consecutive months
- 11.02B: Dyscognitive seizures (formerly complex partial) at least once a week for at least 3 consecutive months
- 11.02C: Generalized tonic-clonic seizures once every 2 months for at least 4 consecutive months PLUS marked limitation in physical functioning OR a specified area of mental functioning
- 11.02D: Dyscognitive seizures once every 2 weeks for at least 3 consecutive months PLUS marked limitation
Documentation needs to come from medical records — typically EEG findings plus seizure description from witnesses (family members, EMS reports). Self-reported seizures without medical corroboration carry less weight.
Listing 11.09 — Multiple sclerosis
Three pathways:
- A: Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in extreme limitation in standing up from seated, balancing while standing/walking, or using upper extremities
- B: Marked limitation in physical functioning AND marked limitation in one of the four mental functioning areas (similar to 12.00 paragraph B)
MS cases often involve fatigue, cognitive issues, and intermittent symptom flares that the listing doesn’t capture cleanly. RFC arguments are often stronger than literal 11.09 matches for these claimants.
Listing 11.17 — ALS and neurodegenerative disorders
ALS qualifies automatically under SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list — claims are typically decided within 30 days. For other neurodegenerative disorders (frontotemporal dementia, certain forms of dementia, Huntington’s), the criteria are similar to 11.02 functional language plus progression evidence.
Listing 11.18 — Traumatic brain injury
Evaluated at 3 months post-injury minimum. Requires either: disorganization of motor function in two extremities, OR marked limitation in physical functioning and marked limitation in one of the four mental functioning areas. TBI cases also often invoke 12.02 (neurocognitive disorders) and require combined arguments.
Listing 11.14 — Peripheral neuropathy
Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in extreme limitation in standing or walking, OR marked limitation in physical functioning AND marked limitation in mental functioning. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common path here.
What evidence wins neurological cases
Neurologist treatment records spanning 12+ months. Recent imaging — MRI of brain or spine as relevant. EEG for epilepsy. EMG/nerve conduction for peripheral neuropathy. Cognitive testing for TBI and neurodegenerative cases. Detailed seizure logs or symptom logs maintained by patient or family.
For MS specifically: McDonald criteria documentation, MRI evidence of lesions in space and time, evidence of disease activity over time.
Where neurological cases fall apart
Epilepsy: medication compliance is critical. If your seizures are happening because you’re not taking prescribed anticonvulsants, SSA views the condition as treatable. Document compliance, or document the reason for non-compliance (cost, side effects, ineffective alternatives).
MS and other relapsing-remitting conditions: SSA evaluates current functional status, and patients vary day-to-day. A “good day” exam can undermine a case if it isn’t contextualized.
Peripheral neuropathy: SSA wants objective EMG/NCS confirmation, not just symptom description. Get the studies done if your neurologist hasn’t ordered them.
Related conditions on our site
Parkinson’s disease and SSDI · Traumatic brain injury · Peripheral neuropathy · Carpal tunnel syndrome
Compassionate Allowances
Many neurological conditions are fast-tracked: ALS, Huntington’s disease, certain spinocerebellar ataxias, Creutzfeldt-Jakob, certain childhood-onset neurodegenerative conditions.
Free consultation
If you have epilepsy, MS, Parkinson’s, ALS, TBI, or another neurological condition, a free 30-minute call helps identify the cleanest 11.00 sub-listing for your case — and what evidence to develop.
Official SSA reference: View Section 11.00 on ssa.gov →