# SSDI Evidence Checklist — What Wins Claims

The SSA's Disability Determination Services can only approve what the file documents; missing records are the single most common reason claims lose. Build the file the decision requires.

**Direct answer:** The evidence that wins an SSDI claim is a longitudinal medical record showing a severe, well-documented impairment, objective testing that matches the diagnosis, and treating-source statements about specific functional limits — not simply a diagnosis or a symptom list.

## What SSA must have in the file

Complete treatment records from every provider who treated the impairment, dating back at least to the alleged onset date, plus any objective imaging, lab work, and specialist notes referenced in those records.

## What proves severity

Objective findings — imaging, ejection fractions, pulmonary function tests, A1c, seizure logs, mental status exams — matched to the specific criteria in the [SSA Blue Book listing](/blue-book) for the impairment.

## What proves function

A treating-source statement addressing sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentration, attendance, and off-task time — the same variables the Vocational Expert will be asked about at an ALJ hearing.

## What proves duration

A written prognosis that the impairment has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death.

## What proves work history

An accurate work history for the last 15 years with dates, job titles, physical/mental demands, and reason work ended.

## What to bring to the hearing

Updated records since the last submission, any new specialist opinions, and a written brief tying the file to the specific listing or Grid Rule the case is being won on.

## 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 — Consultative Examinations — https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/greenbook/ce-evidence.htm
- SSA — Hearing Process — https://www.ssa.gov/appeals/hearing_process.html

## Related questions
- [What evidence do I need after an SSDI denial?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-evidence-do-i-need-after-an-ssdi-denial)
- [How do I prepare for an ALJ hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-do-i-prepare-for-an-alj-hearing)
- [What is residual functional capacity?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-residual-functional-capacity)
## Topics
- SSA Blue Book — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/blue-book
- ALJ Hearing — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing
- SSDI Application Process — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/application-process
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals

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