What evidence is needed for disability in Washington?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 06/05/2025
When applying for Social Security Disability benefits in Washington, strong and complete evidence is the foundation of a successful claim. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires detailed documentation to prove that your medical condition prevents you from working. Knowing what types of evidence to submit—and how to present it—can significantly improve your chances of approval.
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Medical Evidence
The most important part of your claim is medical documentation that supports your diagnosis and its impact on your ability to work. This includes:
- Doctor’s Records: Progress notes, diagnosis, exam results, and treatment history
- Hospital and Clinic Records: Emergency visits, surgeries, and follow-up care
- Test Results: Lab work, imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), and other diagnostic tests
- Treatment History: Medications prescribed, therapies attempted, and your response
- Specialist Reports: Records from neurologists, psychiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, etc.
The SSA is looking for consistent treatment and evidence that your condition is ongoing and severe.
Doctor’s Opinion or Medical Source Statement
A written statement from your treating physician is extremely helpful. This should outline:
- Your official diagnosis
- Specific physical or mental limitations (e.g., can’t sit or stand for long periods, limited concentration)
- How your condition affects your daily functioning and work ability
- Duration and expected outcome of your condition
The SSA gives more weight to opinions from doctors who have treated you over time.
Work History and Functional Limitations
To evaluate how your disability affects your ability to work, include:
- Detailed work history over the past 15 years
- Functional capacity limitations, such as lifting restrictions or inability to focus
- A daily activity report showing how your disability interferes with tasks like dressing, cooking, or driving
This helps the SSA understand why you can’t return to previous work or adjust to new types of work.
Non-Medical Supporting Evidence
You can also provide:
- Statements from family or friends describing your limitations
- School or employment records showing declining performance or accommodations made
- Any documentation related to workers’ compensation, VA benefits, or short/long-term disability claims
These can paint a fuller picture of how your condition affects your life.
Keep Everything Up to Date
Even after submitting your application, keep sending in:

- New test results
- Updated doctor notes
- Any hospitalizations or changes in treatment
The SSA can take months to review your claim, so current information is essential.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Washington residents build strong disability claims by:
- Reviewing your case and identifying evidence gaps
- Requesting medical records and doctor’s letters on your behalf
- Organizing your documentation for maximum clarity and impact
- Submitting a compelling and complete claim to the SSA
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Need help gathering the right evidence for your disability claim in Washington? Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the process, help you stay organized, and improve your chances of success from start to finish.
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