Listing code
5.09
Adult (Part A)
Body system
5.00
Digestive system
Subsections
0
No lettered criteria
Step in evaluation
3 of 5
Listing match approves the claim
SSA listing text and criteria
Liver transplantation (see 5.00G ). Consider under a disability for 1 year from the date of the transplant; after that, evaluate the residual impairment(s).
This listing has no lettered subsections. The diagnosis itself, supported by the medical evidence described in the body-system overview, is what SSA evaluates.
Source: SSA Blue Book listing 5.09. Last synced 2026-05-04.
Where claims under 5.09 usually fail
One common failure is not submitting operative or transplant documentation showing the date of transplant, even if the medical records discuss liver disease or complications. Another is treating 5.09 as a lifelong automatic approval instead of a 1-year listing from the transplant date, followed by evaluation of residual impairments. Some people focus on general digestive symptoms without the kind of supporting evidence SSA looks for in this body system, such as relevant laboratory findings or operative reports. Another pitfall is assuming other digestive listings apply without considering whether the condition is actually liver transplantation (5.09) versus other transplant types like small intestine or pancreas transplantation.
Medical evidence that strengthens this claim
Strong evidence includes operative reports and medical history showing the transplant occurred, plus relevant laboratory findings that document severity and ongoing impairment in the digestive/liver system. In this body system, imaging results can be part of the evidence package if they are consistent with accepted medical practice, and endoscopy or other diagnostic procedures may also be included when relevant. If pathology or clinical laboratory results exist after the transplant, those can matter as part of the medical evidence SSA expects for digestive disorders.
What happens if your records do not meet this listing
SSA considers 5.09 for 1 year from the date of transplant, even though it is not a permanent listing. If the claim is beyond that 1-year period, approval depends on evaluating residual impairments after the transplant rather than the transplant event alone. In other words, the focus shifts from the transplant itself to what ongoing liver and digestive dysfunction remains based on medical evidence.
Work activity and the SGA gate for this condition
For SSDI, the work-activity rules apply while deciding whether work is substantial and gainful. If a liver transplant occurred, 5.09 is considered for disability evaluation for 1 year from the transplant date, after which residual impairment(s) are evaluated instead of the transplant listing. Because 5.09 has a built-in 1-year window and then requires looking at lasting impairments, post-transplant functional limitations and continuing liver/digestive dysfunction become the key issue after the first year. Trial work period and extended period of eligibility apply to people who meet program rules after approval.
Listing 5.09 FAQ
Questions that come up repeatedly for liver transplantation disability claims.