Can I get disability benefits for heartburn?

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You can rarely get disability benefits for basic heartburn alone, but severe chronic GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can qualify if it stops you from working full-time.

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The Social Security Administration does not have a specific diagnostic listing just for heartburn or simple acid reflux. To qualify, your medical records must show that your symptoms persist despite treatment and prevent you from holding a steady job. Approval usually requires severe complications like bleeding, extreme weight loss, esophageal strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus.

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If you are a veteran and your acid reflux is connected to your military service, the Department of Veterans Affairs evaluates GERD under specific digestive system code. Rating percentages range from 0% to 80% depending on how severe your symptoms are and whether you experience issues like painful swallowing or severe weight loss.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​