How to update medical records for SSDI in Washington?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/22/2025
Keeping your medical records up to date is crucial when applying for or maintaining Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Washington. Accurate and recent documentation supports your case by showing how your condition affects your ability to work.
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1. Why Updating Medical Records Is Important
SSA makes decisions based on:
- Current and comprehensive medical evidence
- Documentation showing the progression or stability of your condition
- Proof that your disability continues to prevent you from performing substantial work
Without updated records, your application or ongoing eligibility review could be delayed or denied.
2. Steps to Update Your Medical Records
a. Schedule Regular Doctor Visits
- Continue consistent treatment and follow-ups with your primary care doctor and specialists
- Missed appointments can signal to SSA that your condition may not be as severe as claimed
b. Request Copies from Your Providers
- Contact all doctors, clinics, therapists, and hospitals where you receive care
- Ask for:
- Recent visit notes
- Test results (imaging, labs, assessments)
- Updated treatment plans
- Specialist evaluations
Keep personal copies organized in a dedicated folder for quick reference.
c. Submit Updated Records to SSA Promptly
- For new applications: include all updated records with your initial application submission to avoid delays
- For appeals or hearings: provide any new evidence as soon as possible to ensure the judge has the most complete information
- For Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs): submit current medical documentation to prove ongoing disability
You can submit records:
- Online via your my Social Security account
- By fax or mail to your local SSA office
- Directly through your representative if you have an attorney or advocate handling your case
3. Ask Your Doctor for a Medical Source Statement
A medical source statement is a detailed letter or form explaining:
- Your diagnosis and symptoms
- Specific functional limitations (e.g. inability to sit for long periods, lifting restrictions, cognitive or mental health limitations)
- How these limitations impact your ability to perform work activities
This can significantly strengthen your case when added to your file.
4. Double-Check That SSA Has Received All Records
After submitting your updated records:
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or check your my Social Security account to confirm receipt
- Ensure there are no missing or incomplete documents in your file
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we assist Washington SSDI applicants by:
- Reviewing your medical evidence to identify gaps
- Requesting and organizing updated medical records from your providers
- Submitting complete documentation to SSA to strengthen your application or appeal
- Coordinating directly with your doctors to obtain persuasive medical source statements
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you need guidance updating your medical records for SSDI in Washington or want to ensure your application is as strong as possible, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll help you build a thorough, compelling case to maximize your chances of success.
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