Identify every relevant medical source
List doctors, clinics, hospitals, therapists and testing facilities, including accurate addresses, phone numbers and treatment dates. Include sources for physical and mental conditions when both affect your ability to function.
Document diagnosis, treatment and response
Records may include examination findings, laboratory and imaging results, treatment history, medicines, side effects and response to care. A diagnosis is important, but SSA also evaluates the severity and functional effect of the condition.
Describe work-related limitations
Explain concrete limits such as how long you can sit, stand, walk, concentrate, use your hands, lift, interact with others or maintain attendance. Connect each limitation to medical evidence and describe frequency, duration and recovery time where relevant.
Keep evidence current and consistent
Update SSA when a provider, medicine or condition changes. Review forms for inconsistent dates or descriptions before returning them. SSA must make reasonable efforts to obtain medical reports, but applicants remain responsible for providing requested information and evidence.