1. Why Updating Medical Records Matters

SSA requires recent and detailed documentation to:

• Prove your disability is ongoing and severe enough to prevent work
• Confirm that you continue to receive regular treatment
• Evaluate your condition during reconsideration, hearings, or periodic reviews

Outdated or incomplete records can result in delays or denials.

2. When to Update Your Records

You should provide updated medical records:

• When initially applying for SSDI
• If your claim is denied and you appeal
• Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing
• During Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR), which typically occur every 3 to 7 years depending on your condition

3. How to Gather Updated Medical Records

Here’s how to ensure SSA has your most recent medical evidence:

• Request Records from Providers: Contact your doctors, specialists, therapists, and hospitals to request copies of your latest visit summaries, treatment notes, lab results, imaging reports, and treatment plans.
• Ask for Detailed Statements: Have your treating physician write a detailed letter describing your diagnosis, symptoms, and specific functional limitations that prevent you from working.
• Organize by Date: Make sure each record has the correct dates, provider names, and contact information.

4. How to Submit Updated Records to SSA

You can submit your updated medical records in Minnesota by:

• Uploading to Your My Social Security Account: Log in to ssa.gov if your case is pending and upload documents if instructed.
• Mailing to Your Local SSA Office: Include your full name, Social Security number, and claim number on each page. Use certified mail for tracking.
• Bringing Them In Person: You can drop them off at your nearest Social Security office.
• Sending to the Hearing Office: If you have a scheduled ALJ hearing, send copies directly to the hearing office handling your case.

5. Confirm SSA Received Your Records

After submitting:

• Call SSA or your local Disability Determination Services (DDS) office to confirm they received and added your records to your file.
• Keep copies of everything you submit for your own records.