Quick answer
Listing 11.18 is the section of Social Security’s Listing of Impairments that covers traumatic brain injury. A person can meet it in one of two ways: a severe motor impairment in two extremities (criterion A), or a marked limitation in physical functioning plus a marked limitation in one of four areas of mental functioning (criterion B), in either case lasting at least 3 consecutive months after the injury.[1]
Where the listing fits
A person who meets or equals a listing at step 3 of SSA’s evaluation is found disabled without SSA considering past work or other jobs.[2] A person who doesn’t meet the listing can still be found disabled at steps 4 and 5.[2] See SSDI.
Criterion A: motor function
Under criterion A, the TBI must cause disorganization of motor function in two extremities, resulting in an extreme limitation in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use the upper extremities, persisting for at least 3 consecutive months after the injury.[1]
Criterion B: physical and mental functioning
Criterion B requires a marked limitation in physical functioning and a marked limitation in at least one of these four areas, persisting for at least 3 consecutive months after the injury:[1]
Understanding and memory
Understanding, remembering or applying information.
Interacting with others
Relating to and working with other people.
Concentration and pace
Concentrating, persisting or maintaining pace.
Adapting and self-management
Adapting or managing oneself.
These areas are where cognitive and behavioral effects of a brain injury show up. Neuropsychological testing measures many of the same functions, including memory, concentration and executive function.[3]
Timing rules
SSA’s introduction to the neurological listings (section 11.00Q) explains that SSA generally needs evidence from at least 3 months after the TBI to evaluate it, and may defer a decision until 3 months, and then 6 months, after the injury to see how the person recovers.[1] SSA evaluates coma or a persistent vegetative state under listing 11.20.[1]
The 12-month rule still applies
Meeting the 3-month criteria in the listing is not the same as meeting the statutory duration requirement. The impairment must still have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.[4]
Frequently asked questions
What is listing 11.18?
It is SSA’s listing for traumatic brain injury in the adult neurological disorders section.[1]
Why does SSA wait 3 to 6 months after a brain injury?
SSA says it generally needs evidence from at least 3 months after the injury and may defer the decision to 3 and then 6 months to evaluate recovery.[1]
What if I don’t meet the listing?
SSA can still find a person disabled at steps 4 and 5 based on residual functional capacity, age, education and work experience.[2]
This page provides general information about the law from the sources listed below. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time. See our legal disclaimer.
Sources
- Social Security Administration. “11.00 Neurological Disorders – Adult,” Listing of Impairments. https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm
- 20 CFR § 416.920, “Evaluation of disability of adults, in general.” https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/cfr20/416/416-0920.htm
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. “Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).” https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi
- Social Security Act § 223, “Disability Insurance Benefit Payments.” https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/ssact/title02/0223.htm
Sources last checked: October 11, 2026
