1. Why Updating Medical Records Is Important

SSA needs to see:

• Current treatment details: Information about recent doctor visits, tests, and treatments shows your condition is ongoing.
• Progression of your condition: Records indicating worsening symptoms or new diagnoses support your inability to work.
• Compliance with treatment: Consistent care demonstrates that you are following medical advice but remain disabled despite treatment.

2. How to Update Your Medical Records with SSA

Here’s how to ensure your medical records are up to date:

• Request recent records from all providers: Contact your primary care physician, specialists, hospitals, and therapists to request copies of your latest records.
• Include updated test results: Submit any recent imaging scans, lab work, or evaluations.
• Provide treatment summaries: Ask your doctors for summaries outlining your diagnosis, symptoms, treatments, and prognosis. These summaries help SSA reviewers understand your limitations clearly.

3. Submitting Updated Records

You can submit updated records by:

• Mailing them to your local SSA office: Ensure your name and Social Security number are clearly written on every page.
• Uploading them through your my Social Security account: If you have an online account, check if document upload options are available for your application stage.
• Giving them to your attorney or representative: They can submit records directly to SSA or the hearing office if you’re in the appeals process.

4. When to Update Records

• After every major medical visit or procedure: New records strengthen your claim.
• Before reconsideration or hearing deadlines: Updated records should be submitted promptly to be included in SSA’s review.
• Whenever your condition worsens: New symptoms, hospitalizations, or treatment changes should be documented and shared with SSA immediately.

5. Tips for Effective Record Updates

• Keep a log of all medical appointments to track which records need updating.
• Always request full records, including doctor notes, not just summaries or billing statements.
• Review documents before submission to ensure they’re complete and accurate.