What is needed to prove disability in Virginia?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 04/23/2025
If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Virginia, understanding what’s required to prove your disability is essential. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict standards for approval, and success depends largely on the evidence you submit. Here's what you need to build a strong disability claim in Virginia.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Key Requirements to Prove Disability in Virginia
To be approved for disability benefits, you must show that your condition:
- Prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA)
- Has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death
- Meets or equals a listed impairment or limits your ability to do any kind of work
Here’s how to meet those criteria with the right documentation and strategy.
Comprehensive Medical Evidence
Medical records are the foundation of any disability claim. In Virginia, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office reviews these records to decide if you meet SSA’s definition of disabled. Make sure to include:
- Treatment records from all doctors, clinics, and hospitals
- Test results, including imaging (MRIs, X-rays) and lab work
- Mental health records, if applicable
- Detailed physician notes describing your symptoms and limitations
- A medical source statement from your treating doctor outlining how your condition limits your ability to work
Tip: The more consistent and detailed your medical history is, the better your chances of approval.
Work and Education History
You must also provide information about your:
- Past jobs (duties, dates, and physical/mental demands)
- Education and training
- Any skills that may transfer to other types of work
This helps the SSA determine whether you can do your previous work or adjust to other work given your limitations.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment
Your RFC is an evaluation of what you can still do despite your condition. The SSA considers:
- Physical abilities (walking, sitting, lifting, etc.)
- Mental capacity (memory, concentration, stress tolerance)
- Daily activities and how your condition affects them
Getting a detailed RFC form completed by your doctor can greatly support your case.
Non-Medical Evidence
Additional forms of evidence can strengthen your application, such as:
- Statements from family, friends, or former employers
- Daily activity logs
- Medication side effects impacting your ability to work
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Virginia residents gather and organize the right evidence to prove disability. Our team can:
- Help you understand exactly what’s required under SSA rules
- Work directly with your doctors to obtain the necessary documentation
- Guide you through the entire process from application to appeal
- Build a strong, well-documented case tailored to your specific situation
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Proving disability in Virginia takes strategy, organization, and strong evidence. Let us take the pressure off. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation — we’ll help you submit the strongest case possible so you can focus on your health while we focus on your claim.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you