What this listing covers
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in your bone marrow. When these cells become cancerous, they grow uncontrollably and crowd out healthy blood cells, which often leads to bone damage, kidney issues, and a weakened immune system.
This condition frequently causes severe bone pain, fractures, and persistent fatigue that makes daily tasks like walking, lifting, or standing for long periods difficult. The physical toll often prevents you from maintaining the focus or stamina required for a standard work shift.
How SSA evaluates a claim under this listing
Under Listing 13.07, the SSA evaluates your multiple myeloma based on medical confirmation through serum or urine protein electrophoresis and bone marrow findings. They look for evidence that your cancer has either failed to respond to initial treatment or is actively progressing.
If you have undergone a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, the SSA considers you disabled for at least 12 months following the procedure. After this period, they evaluate any remaining symptoms or functional limitations to determine if you can still perform substantial gainful activity. An attorney can help you navigate these requirements.
Evidence that strengthens a claim
Strong claims rely on detailed pathology reports, bone marrow biopsy results, and protein electrophoresis records that confirm your diagnosis. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans that document bone lesions or fractures are also essential to show the extent of your disease.
Documentation of your treatment history, including the specific drugs used and your response to them, is vital. Statements from your treating oncologist regarding your ongoing symptoms, the side effects of therapy, and your ability to perform work-related activities provide necessary context for your claim. An attorney can help you gather this evidence.
How an attorney helps
A disability attorney helps by ensuring your medical records are organized to directly address the criteria in Listing 13.07. They can assist in gathering specific test results and physician statements that clearly document your functional limitations and treatment response. By managing the complexities of the application or appeal process, an attorney helps you present the most accurate and complete picture of your impairment to the Social Security Administration.
Frequently asked questions
Multiple myeloma does not result in an automatic approval, but it is a listed impairment under Listing 13.07. You must provide medical evidence showing your cancer is progressive, has failed to respond to treatment, or that you have undergone a stem cell transplant. An attorney can review your specific medical records to see how they align with these requirements.
The SSA requires objective medical evidence, specifically protein electrophoresis and bone marrow findings. You should also include records of your treatment regimen and any imaging that shows bone involvement. A disability attorney can help ensure your file contains the specific documentation the SSA looks for to support your claim.
If you undergo a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, the SSA considers you disabled for at least 12 months from the date of the transplant. After that year, they will evaluate any residual symptoms or complications to see if you remain disabled. An attorney can help you track these timelines and prepare for the transition to a post-transplant evaluation.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to request a reconsideration and, if necessary, a hearing before an ALJ. You must file these appeals within specific timeframes to keep your claim active. An attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and identify the additional evidence needed to strengthen your case.
