# What evidence do I need after an SSDI denial?

Denials name a specific reason; the new evidence must directly rebut that reason.

**Direct answer:** After an SSDI denial you need updated medical records since the last submission, a treating-source function statement, and objective testing that directly rebuts the specific reason SSA gave for the denial.

## Read the denial first

The denial names the finding — e.g. "impairment does not meet listing X" or "you can perform past work." Every new piece of evidence should answer that finding.

## Records to add

Any visit, imaging, lab, or specialist note dated after the previous submission — SSA can only decide on what is in the file.

## Function statements

A treating provider's written opinion on sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentration, attendance, and off-task time is the most important document for RFC-based denials.

## Sources
- SSA — How You Qualify for Disability — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html
- SSA — Blue Book (Listing of Impairments) — https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/
- SSA — The Appeals Process — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html

## Related questions
- [How do you win an SSDI appeal?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-to-win-an-ssdi-appeal)
- [SSDI Evidence Checklist — What Wins Claims](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/ssdi-evidence-checklist)
- [What is residual functional capacity?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-residual-functional-capacity)
## Topics
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals
- SSA Blue Book — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/blue-book

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Published: 2026-07-18T13:46:10.141425+00:00
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