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The Daily Insight

Does having a learning disability make you disabled?

Author

Sarah Duran

Published Mar 26, 2026

A child’s learning disability must be severe and well documented to qualify for SSI disability benefits. In 2017, the SSA created a new disability listing that recognizes learning disability as a disabling medical condition. The listing is for “neurodevelopmental disorders,” listing 112.11.

What benefits can I get with a learning disability?

A person with a learning disability may be eligible for SSDI or SSI. It is often challenging to be approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplement Security Income (SSI), particularly if you file an application without the assistance of an experienced Social Security disability benefits attorney.

What are the signs of learning disabilities in adults?

Common signs that a person may have learning disabilities include the following:

  • Problems reading and/or writing.
  • Problems with math.
  • Poor memory.
  • Problems paying attention.
  • Trouble following directions.
  • Clumsiness.
  • Trouble telling time.
  • Problems staying organized.

Can you get disability for dyspraxia?

You may be entitled to receive a benefit from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) if your child has dyspraxia/attention deficit/dyslexia etc. DLA stands for Disability Living Allowance and it is not means tested, nor is it taxable. There are 2 elements to it – caring and mobility.

Is a learning disability special needs?

Learning disabilities are the most prevalent handicapping condition covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the federal law that guides special education. These children’s books explain how people learn differently, highlighting dyslexia and other learning differences.

Can I get a blue badge for dyspraxia?

The new recipients of blue badges will be those with hidden disabilities. These have no physical signs to the outside world but are still disabilities under the Equality Act. They include, but are not limited to, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and mental health.

Is dyspraxia a form of autism?

So although there are similarities, autism is primarily a social and communication disorder and dyspraxia is primarily a motor skills disorder. If your child has one of these conditions but you feel they also have other difficulties, you may think about further assessment.

Can a person with a learning disability get Social Security?

A person with a learning disability may be eligible for SSDI or SSI. Adults may also receive Social Security disability benefits if they have a learning disability. However, these cases are often more challenging, particularly if the applicant has worked in the past.

Characteristics of adults with LD

  • difficulty with reading, writing and/or math;
  • poor memory;
  • difficulty following directions;
  • inability to discriminate between or among letters, numbers, and/or sounds;
  • eye-hand coordination problems;
  • difficulty putting things in the right sequence;
  • disorganization; and/or.

How can I prove I have a learning disability?

Diagnosing a Learning Disability

  1. Lack of enthusiasm for reading or writing.
  2. Trouble memorizing things.
  3. Working at a slow pace.
  4. Trouble following directions.
  5. Trouble staying focused on a task.
  6. Difficulty understanding abstract ideas.
  7. Lack of attention to detail, or too much attention to detail.
  8. Poor social skills.

Do you have to be disabled to get Social Security?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not grant all disabilities Social Security Disability benefits. In order to qualify for benefits, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disabled, which is: Or, Your condition will result in death.

How does Social Security disability work and how does it work?

Social Security Disability Insurance pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are “insured,” meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need.

How does Supplemental Security income work for people with disabilities?

Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need. When you apply for either program, we will collect medical and other information from you and make a decision about whether or not you meet Social Security’s definition of disability.

When to apply for Social Security disability benefits?

You should apply for Social Security disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. The application process can take three to five months, according to Social Security, and counts as part of the mandatory waiting period of five months after the onset of your disability. 12