HOW TO GET READY FOR YOUR HEARING
Most disability applications are rejected at first. The first appeal, called "Reconsideration" usually does not get a favorable response, either. When these two steps have failed, as they usually do, it's time for a hearing with an administrative law judge, your the next step.
How do you prepare for that hearing? Realize that the hearing before the judge is the best opportunity you will ever have to get your benefits approved. So, it's important to make a good appearance and present yourself well.
Some suggestions:
1. First and foremost, be absolutely certain that all of your medical records have been submitted well in advance of the hearing. You can review your electronic folder by contacting the Social Security Office of Hearings Operations which has jurisdiction over your appeal. They should have received a medical record from each doctor, hospital, emergency room, counselor and other medical providers that you have seen within the relevant period.
2. Prepare yourself to explain, in clear and precise terms, why you are not able to work. Also, be able to explain when and why you stopped working. Instead of focusing on medical terms (diagnosis), focus on your symptoms (pain, headaches, weakness, fatigue, etc.). Stress your limitations in function (difficult with sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, etc.).
3. Be prepared for questions about any work you may have performed after your alleged onset date (the date you say your disability began). Social Security will have a record of all your work, even part-time efforts.
4. Get ready for any "red flags" that may crop up: alcohol or drug abuse, unemployment benefits since your alleged onset date, etc.
5. Consider getting representation. Only you can decide if this is appropriate for you, but very few cases don't benefit from professional representation at the hearing level.
How do you prepare for that hearing? Realize that the hearing before the judge is the best opportunity you will ever have to get your benefits approved. So, it's important to make a good appearance and present yourself well.
Some suggestions:
1. First and foremost, be absolutely certain that all of your medical records have been submitted well in advance of the hearing. You can review your electronic folder by contacting the Social Security Office of Hearings Operations which has jurisdiction over your appeal. They should have received a medical record from each doctor, hospital, emergency room, counselor and other medical providers that you have seen within the relevant period.
2. Prepare yourself to explain, in clear and precise terms, why you are not able to work. Also, be able to explain when and why you stopped working. Instead of focusing on medical terms (diagnosis), focus on your symptoms (pain, headaches, weakness, fatigue, etc.). Stress your limitations in function (difficult with sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, etc.).
3. Be prepared for questions about any work you may have performed after your alleged onset date (the date you say your disability began). Social Security will have a record of all your work, even part-time efforts.
4. Get ready for any "red flags" that may crop up: alcohol or drug abuse, unemployment benefits since your alleged onset date, etc.
5. Consider getting representation. Only you can decide if this is appropriate for you, but very few cases don't benefit from professional representation at the hearing level.
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