Listing code
111.09
Children (Part B)
Body system
111.00
Neurological disorders (children)
Subsections
3
Lettered criteria paths
Step in evaluation
3 of 5
Listing match approves the claim
SSA listing text and criteria
Communication impairment , associated with documented neurological disorder and one of the following:
Subsection A
Documented speech deficit that significantly affects (see 111.00K1 ) the clarity and content of the speech. OR
Subsection B
Documented comprehension deficit resulting in ineffective verbal communication (see 111.00K2 ) for age. OR
Subsection C
Impairment of hearing as described under the criteria in 102.10 or 102.11 .
Source: SSA Blue Book listing 111.09. Last synced 2026-05-04.
Where claims under 111.09 usually fail
A frequent failure is not matching any lettered criterion: for example, showing speech difficulty but not showing a documented speech deficit that significantly affects the clarity and content of speech. Another failure is confusing general language delay with a documented comprehension deficit that results in ineffective verbal communication for age. A third failure is trying to qualify under the hearing route (subsection C) without meeting the hearing criteria references to 102.10 or 102.11. A fourth failure is missing the required link to a documented neurological disorder instead of having only mental impairment or a non-neurological condition.
Medical evidence that strengthens this claim
Medical evidence needs to document the neurological disorder, using medical history, examination findings, relevant laboratory tests, and imaging results when they are part of the medical evaluation. For the communication part, evidence should document one of the lettered criteria: (A) a documented speech deficit that significantly affects the clarity and content of speech, or (B) a documented comprehension deficit resulting in ineffective verbal communication for age, or (C) impairment of hearing that fits the criteria in 102.10 or 102.11. Non-medical evidence can support the effects of the neurological disorder on communication, including statements about impairments, restrictions, and daily activities (and for an adolescent, efforts to work).
What happens if your records do not meet this listing
If the exact communication track does not match any of subsections A, B, or C, SSA still evaluates whether the overall functional impact could be comparable through the functional-equivalence process referenced in the neurological body-system overview. In other words, the medical evidence of the neurological disorder and its effects still matters, even when the listing's specific lettered communication criteria are not met exactly.
Work activity and the SGA gate for this condition
This listing is for children under 18 (Part B), so work activity rules are not the usual focus in the way they are for adults. For children, eligibility depends on having the required documented neurological disorder plus a lettered communication criterion (speech deficit significantly affecting clarity and content, comprehension deficit causing ineffective verbal communication for age, or hearing impairment meeting 102.10 or 102.11). SSA uses both medical and non-medical evidence to assess the effects of the neurological disorder on functioning, including statements about impairments and restrictions.
Listing 111.09 FAQ
Questions that come up repeatedly for communication impairment , associated with disability claims.