If you’re wondering, “Can you get disability for dyslexia?” the answer depends on how severe your dyslexia is and whether it significantly limits your ability to work or function in daily life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have a specific disability listing for dyslexia. However, individuals with severe dyslexia may still qualify for benefits. If you or your child struggles with dyslexia, here’s what you need to know about Social Security disability benefits for dyslexia and how to improve your chances of approval.
Key Takeaways
- Dyslexia is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder but does not automatically qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
- To be eligible for disability benefits, you must prove severe functional limitations that impact work, education, or daily activities.
- Strong medical and educational evidence is crucial for a successful disability claim.
- Children with severe dyslexia may qualify for Supplemental Security Income if they meet medical and financial eligibility requirements.
- A disability attorney can improve your chances of approval by helping gather evidence, completing paperwork correctly, and representing you in an appeal if necessary.
Table of Contents
Is Dyslexia a Disability?
Dyslexia is a neurological disorder that affects an individual’s ability to read, write, and process language. It is a lifelong condition that can impact academic performance, employment opportunities, and daily activities.
Although dyslexia is recognized as a disability under federal laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), these laws focus on educational and workplace accommodations, not Social Security disability benefits.
The SSA applies stricter criteria than schools or workplaces when determining if dyslexia qualifies as a disability. To be eligible for benefits, applicants must demonstrate that their dyslexia severely limits their ability to work or function independently.
Can You Get Disability for Dyslexia Under Social Security?
The SSA does not have a specific listing for dyslexia in the Blue Book, the official list of medical conditions and criteria used to determine disability eligibility. While dyslexia does not have a dedicated listing, it is evaluated under Neurodevelopmental Disorders. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your dyslexia causes marked limitations in key functional areas.
The Argument for Benefits
In order to argue for dyslexia benefits, you’ll fall under neurodevelopmental disorders in the Blue Book, a section that covers a range of different conditions including ADHD, Tourette’s syndrome and dyscalculia (a form of dyslexia specifically related to numbers). The listing criteria are the same regardless of whether the person is a child or an adult. You must prove that the learning disorder creates significant difficulties in using or picking up academic skills.
Specifically, you have to show that the marked limitation affects at least 2 of these conditions:
- Ability to understand or use information
- Social interactions
- Concentration or keeping pace
- Adapting to new situations or managing yourself
What Is a Marked Limitation?
The criteria requires that you show a “marked” limitation. This means that the limitation is beyond moderate in level, but it doesn’t have to be so extreme as to be crippling. This leaves a fairly broad area in which to argue, but Social Security still takes a harsh stance on dyslexia in terms of the limits it imposes.
Since dyslexia is not explicitly listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, applicants must provide strong medical and educational evidence to prove their case. Working with an experienced disability attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation, complete your application correctly, and improve your chances of success. If you’re wondering if you qualify or are struggling to get approved for dyslexia Social Security benefits, seek legal assistance.
How To Apply for Disability Benefits for Dyslexia
If you’re considering applying for Social Security disability benefits for dyslexia, follow these key steps:
The SSA offers 2 types of disability benefits:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Available for adults who have a work history and have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. To qualify, you must have enough work credits and prove that dyslexia prevents you from maintaining employment.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A needs-based program for low-income individuals, including children with severe dyslexia and adults who do not have a qualifying work history. Financial eligibility requirements must be met.
A disability lawyer can help you determine which program best fits your situation and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Since dyslexia is not automatically considered a disability under Social Security rules, the SSA requires extensive documentation to prove how it affects your ability to function. This includes:
- Medical Records: If you have a formal diagnosis of dyslexia or related neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, dyscalculia), include evaluations from psychologists, neurologists, or other specialists.
- Educational Records: If applying for a child with dyslexia, provide IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 Plan documentation to demonstrate academic struggles.
- Neuropsychological Evaluations: These assessments measure cognitive function, reading ability, and processing disorders.
- Work Performance Records: If dyslexia prevents you from working, statements from employers, difficulty maintaining employment, or vocational rehabilitation reports can strengthen your case.
A lawyer can help obtain additional expert opinions and ensure all evidence is properly submitted to the SSA.
You can apply for disability benefits:
- Online at the SSA website
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213
- In person at your local SSA office
The application requires detailed information about your medical condition, work history, education, and daily challenges. Many first-time applications are denied due to missing or incomplete information. A disability attorney can assist in correctly filling out your application to reduce errors and improve approval chances.
Once submitted, the SSA will review your claim and may:
- Request additional medical records
- Ask you to attend an examination with an SSA-approved doctor
- Contact teachers or employers for further information
A Social Security lawyer can guide you through this process, helping ensure you’re prepared for any additional requests or medical exams required by the SSA.
After the review process, the SSA will issue a decision. This can take months, and many claims are denied initially. If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope—you have the right to appeal the decision.
Applying for dyslexia disability benefits can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our legal team at The Law Offices of Dr. Bill LaTour has years of experience helping California residents secure disability benefits. Take the first step today and request your free case evaluation.
What To Do If Your Dyslexia Disability Claim Is Denied
Many disability claims for dyslexia are denied because the SSA requires strong evidence of severe functional limitations. If your application is denied:
- Request a Reconsideration: You have 60 days to appeal the decision.
- Gather Additional Evidence: Obtain more detailed reports from doctors, teachers, and psychologists to strengthen your case.
- Attend a Disability Hearing: If the reconsideration is denied, you can present your case to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
- Hire a Disability Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you build a stronger case and improve your chances of approval.
Can My Child Get a Disability Check for Dyslexia?
Yes, children with severe dyslexia may qualify for SSI benefits if their condition significantly limits their ability to learn, communicate, or function independently. The SSA will evaluate:
- How dyslexia affects academic performance
- Whether the child has additional impairments (e.g., ADHD, processing disorders)
- Medical and educational documentation, such as IEPs and neuropsychological reports
If your child’s dyslexia is significantly impacting their daily life and education, securing SSI benefits can provide crucial financial support for necessary resources and therapies. Since proving eligibility can be complex, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance from a qualified attorney.
Your Dyslexia Disability Claim Deserves the Best Representation
Navigating the Social Security disability benefits process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with strict SSA requirements and complex paperwork. Many claims are denied simply due to insufficient documentation or procedural errors—but you don’t have to go through this process alone.
Our firm has extensive experience helping individuals and families secure disability benefits. We understand how to present strong medical, educational, and vocational evidence to build a compelling case. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we can guide you through each step of the process.
Why Choose Dr. Bill LaTour?
- Free case evaluation to determine your eligibility for benefits.
- Assistance with gathering medical and educational evidence to strengthen your claim.
- Guidance through the entire application process to avoid common mistakes that lead to denials.
- Aggressive representation for appeals and hearings if your claim has been denied.
Getting disability for dyslexia is possible with the right legal support. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our team help you secure your benefits.
