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4 Things to Do Before Your Social Security Disability Hearing

A Social Security Disability (SSD) hearing is your opportunity to make an appeal if you’ve been denied benefits. Denials upon the first application and reconsideration are not uncommon. SSD hearings are a chance to challenge those earlier decisions and prove to an administrative law judge that your disability prevents you from earning a living wage.

The whole process of applying for and eventually securing Social Security Disability through appeals and hearings can be daunting—and at times confusing and time consuming. These tips can help you properly prepare for your hearing, to help relieve stress and set you up for success.


1) Find a Trustworthy Attorney

For those already dealing with the challenges of a disability, the process of applying for benefits and attending a hearing may feel overwhelming. Having a trustworthy attorney on your side can help ease the stress of the complex SSD process. And with the right legal support, your chances of a successful claim increase dramatically.

One of the biggest challenges of the SSD process is simply understanding the process and feeling prepared for your hearing. An experienced attorney that is well-versed in the system can help ensure that you do everything you can to get the compensation you deserve. Plus, an attorney can help avoid common pitfalls, such as incomplete applications, missed deadlines or inadequate medical evidence, which can lead to delays and denials. With a professional’s knowledge, you’ll have a smoother experience and a stronger case from the start.


2) Gather Evidence

Be prepared for your hearing by ensuring you have gathered all necessary evidence that may need to be presented to the judge, including medical records and proof of severity of your disability.

Medical Records

You will need to have proof of your impairment(s), as diagnosed by a medical professional. Such records were required for your initial SSD application, so simply relocating that paperwork may be sufficient. If you are working with an attorney, that attorney will likely assist in obtaining copies of your medical records to submit to the judge before the hearing. It is vital that all relevant evidence be submitted before the hearing as you may not be able to submit additional evidence later.

If your attorney thinks your case could benefit from further compelling evidence, consider obtaining a detailed statement or Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form from your physician which outlines the severity of your symptoms, your restrictions and how those restrictions would prevent you from doing substantial gainful employment to bolster your case.

Proof of Severity

While a claim is in progress, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will allow evidence backing up the severity of your impairment(s) from nonmedical individuals to determine your ability to effectively perform at your job. This may include:

  • Friends

  • Family Members

  • Neighbors

  • Employers & Colleagues

Also, always submit your most recent medical information to the SSA before the hearing and be sure to include any changes to your condition(s).


3) Prepare Answers to Common Hearing Questions

We suggest preparing a “cheat sheet” of questions commonly asked at SSD hearings as well as your answers. Your attorney can aid you in determining how to best prepare your answers and determine what questions you’re most likely to be asked.

The judge will typically ask for your basic information: name, Social Security number, age, mailing address, height and weight, as well as some more in-depth questions about your impairment(s) and how your ability to work is affected, such as:

  • What is your diagnosis?

  • What treatments have you tried?

  • How does your disability impact your daily activities?

  • How does your disability impact your ability to take care of yourself?

  • Are you currently working?

Be sure to work with your attorney to practice and prepare for your hearing in order to best set your case up for success.


4) Get Familiar with the Hearing Process

Like most things, your hearing will go smoothest if you do some prior research to know what to expect. Here’s a rundown:

  • Hearings typically take 30 minutes to an hour, longer if you require a translator

  • The judge will explain the issues they see with your case, and ask follow-up questions to help them better understand

  • Witnesses and/or medical experts may be asked to attend and share their experience/expertise

  • Your attorney will also get the opportunity to question any witnesses who may be present at the hearing

  • The hearing is informal, but you and all witnesses are under oath and the court may take an audio recording

Your attorney is a priceless resource that can help you feel comfortable and adequately prepared. Always ask them any and all questions to help you feel ready for your hearing.

Utilizing these tips is just a start, and it’s important to understand that each case and each hearing is different, but an attorney can help set you up for success and create a plan tailored to your specific circumstances.

Learn what the experienced attorneys at Black & Jones can do for your and SSD case with a free consultation. Call 815-967-9000 or fill out this form to get one step closer to receiving the benefits you deserve.