Migraine & Headache Disability: Social Security Disability Claims for Severe Headaches

When Headaches Make It Impossible to Work

Everyone experiences headaches from time to time—but for some individuals, severe, recurring migraines or cluster headaches can be debilitating. These intense headache disorders can make it impossible to maintain a consistent work schedule, complete tasks, or even leave the house during flare-ups.

At Binder & Binder®, we understand how frustrating it is to live with pain that’s often invisible to others. If your doctor has said you can no longer work because of chronic migraines or severe headaches, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits—even though these conditions are not currently listed as a standalone impairment by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Why Migraine and Headache Claims Are Difficult

Winning an SSD claim for migraines or cluster headaches can be particularly challenging. There is no single diagnostic test for migraines, and symptoms are often self-reported. What’s more, the causes and treatments for these conditions are not fully understood, and symptom severity can vary widely from person to person.

This is why working with a knowledgeable disability advocate is essential. At Binder & Binder®, we’ve helped tens of thousands of clients win SSD claims—many of them for conditions not explicitly listed by the SSA, including migraine disorders.

What the SSA Will Look For

To qualify for benefits, your case must show:

• Frequent and severe migraines or headaches

• Medical records documenting your condition, treatment attempts, and outcomes

• Statements from treating physicians confirming how your condition prevents you from working

• Evidence of how symptoms disrupt your ability to concentrate, stay on task, or complete a full workday

We’ll help you collect and organize this documentation and present a clear case to the SSA.

How Binder & Binder® Can Help

If chronic headaches or migraines are preventing you from working and living your life, don’t face the Social Security Disability process alone. We know how to frame your case in terms the SSA understands—and we’ll handle the stress of filing, so you don’t have to.

Call Binder & Binder® at 1-800-4-BINDER or complete the contact form below to get started on your claim today.