Resources

January 1, 2024

How Far Back Does Social Security Look at Medical Records

Imagine your life story told in medical charts. Every ache, every diagnosis, every pill prescribed—these become the chapters the Social Security Administration reads when you apply for disability. But here’s the kicker: they don’t read the whole book. So, how far back do they dig? Is it a quick glance at the last page or a deep dive into your entire medical history? The answer could make the difference between getting the benefits you desperately need and facing a soul-crushing denial. Don’t let uncertainty derail your claim; let’s unravel the mystery of Social Security’s medical timeline together. And if navigating this complex process feels overwhelming, remember that experienced legal professionals, like those at the Law Offices of Jennifer R. Solomon, are here to guide you. We can help maximize your chances of success. 

How to Get Medical Records for Disability

To determine whether you qualify for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical history to assess the severity of your condition. But how can you gather the necessary medical records to support your claim?

• Request records from healthcare providers. You have the right to request copies of your medical records from doctors, hospitals, and clinics.
• Submit a request to the SSA. You can authorize the SSA to collect your records by completing Form SSA-827.
• Check with past doctors. Even if you have not seen a particular doctor in years, their records may contain valuable information that supports your claim. 
• Review your own files. If you have kept copies of your medical records, applying for disability is a good time to review them. They might contain helpful information that will help make your case for benefits.

Gathering comprehensive and relevant medical evidence is critical. Managing medical records can be daunting, but legal professionals can assist in gathering, reviewing, and submitting the necessary documentation to support your claim effectively.

Can Social Security Get My Medical Records?

The SSA has access to a wide range of medical records, but they rely on your authorization to retrieve them. Here is how they obtain records:

• Through signed consent. The SSA cannot access private medical records without your signed consent.
• From healthcare providers. Doctors, hospitals, and treatment facilities can submit records directly to the SSA.
• Using electronic health exchange systems. Some providers participate in digital systems that allow for faster retrieval of medical records.
• Through follow-up requests. If the SSA needs more information, they may reach out to your doctors for clarification.

Although the SSA does a thorough job of collecting medical records, they might miss crucial details. Instead of wondering if Social Security has access to the records they need, consider working with an attorney to help fill in any gaps and prevent delays.

How Long Does Social Security Keep Records?

The SSA retains disability records based on federal recordkeeping policies. Here are the verified retention periods:

• Financial records and supporting documents—retained for six years unless unresolved federal audit findings require longer retention;  
• Medical exam physician records—kept for six years unless part of an ongoing audit; and 
• Administrative records—kept until the claim is resolved and no longer needed. 

Understanding how long Social Security keeps records can help you prepare for an appeal or reapplication if necessary.  

How Far Back Will the SSA Look at Medical Records?

The SSA reviews your complete medical history, starting 12 months before your application date. This timeframe helps them assess your current condition and determine whether your disability meets their criteria. However, in some cases, they may need to go further back in time to establish the onset and progression of your condition.

• Complete medical history. The SSA could require a full record of medical sources related to your claim, including documentation from doctors, hospitals, and treatment facilities. This history is used to evaluate how your condition has affected your ability to work. 
• Alleged Onset Date (AOD). If your disability began earlier than your application date, the SSA may review records dating back more than 12 months to establish when your impairment started. The AOD is the date you claim your disability began, and the evidence must support this contention.  
• Established Onset Date (EOD). After reviewing your medical records, the SSA determines your official disability onset date, known as the EOD.

If your medical history is extensive, having an attorney show you how to get medical records for your disability and present the most relevant records can be essential for a smooth application process.

Can I Submit Additional Medical Records After Applying?

Yes, you can submit additional medical records after filing your initial application. This is particularly important if:

• You undergo new medical treatments,
• Your condition worsens,
• You receive new diagnoses that strengthen your claim, or
• You discover missing or incorrect information in previously submitted records.

If your claim is denied due to insufficient medical evidence, an attorney can help you submit additional documentation and appeal the decision.

What If My Medical Records Are Incomplete?

Missing medical records can significantly impact your claim. If your records are incomplete, you can:

• Request copies of missing records from previous providers,
• Submit personal documentation of symptoms and treatments,
• Seek a consultative exam from an SSA-approved doctor, and
• Work with a legal professional to locate and submit missing records.

Incomplete records should not prevent you from receiving benefits. An attorney can advocate on your behalf to supplement your file with the necessary evidence.

How the Law Offices of Jennifer R. Solomon Can Help

Navigating the Social Security Disability process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex medical documentation. The Law Offices of Jennifer R. Solomon takes a personalized approach to every case, leveraging Jennifer’s background as a former insurance defense lawyer to anticipate potential challenges. Unlike larger firms that treat clients as case numbers, we prioritize personal attention and legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.

Contact Us Today

If you need assistance obtaining, organizing, or presenting medical records for your Social Security Disability claim, contact the Law Offices of Jennifer R. Solomon today. We can provide the guidance you need to build a strong case and improve your chances of approval.

 

Resources

Social Security Administration, Program Operations Manual System, DI 39509.001, link. 

Social Security Administration, Program Operations Manual System, DI 39509.015, link.

Social Security Administration, Program Operations Manual System, DI 22505.001, link.

Social Security Administration, Program Operations Manual System, DI 25501.210, link.

Social Security Administration, Program Operations Manual System, DI 25501.370, link.