How to Prepare for a Disability Hearing
If you applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and the SSA denied your claim, you can appeal the decision and may need to attend a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This may seem intimidating, and you may wonder what questions are asked at an SSDI hearing. In this article, we will break down how to best prepare for your hearing.
What You Will Be Testifying To
- Your medical condition(s) and how they affect you
- Your symptoms related to your medical conditions
- Your medical treatments and medications for your condition
- Your education, work history, skills, and training
- Your daily activities and limitations
Tips to be Successful
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Review your application
Review your file to refresh your memory on the information you shared with the SSA, any correspondence you had with them, and any medical records or supporting evidence you submitted.
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Prepare documents
Although you cannot reference documents during your hearing, it is recommended that you have a copy of your application, correspondence with the SSA, your medical records, and any notes while you prepare for your hearing. Most hearings are now virtual, so having these items handy to review before a remote hearing is extremely helpful.
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Provide recent medical records
The ALJ should have access to all your medical records, including details of recent appointments and treatments. To ensure a smooth hearing, confirm that you submitted these documents—along with any updated medical records—to the SSA beforehand.
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Provide a written doctor’s statement
A crucial piece of evidence you need is a letter from your doctor(s) outlining your medical condition(s) and how it has impacted your ability to work. You may have obtained a letter from your doctor when you first applied; however, after you receive the notice of your hearing, you will need an up-to-date letter.
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Hire an attorney
It is imperative that you retain a disability attorney if you have a hearing scheduled. An experienced attorney greatly improves your chances of a successful outcome. A disability attorney will file the appeal for you, ensure it is filed correctly, review your application, gather necessary documents for the SSA, help prepare you for your hearing, and attend the hearing with you. This includes requesting medical records, obtaining your doctor’s statement, and handling all necessary paperwork on your behalf. Your attorney will prepare you with questions that the ALJ may ask at the hearing and will advocate in your best interest during the hearing, including cross examining the vocational expert and other experts.
Our No Fee Guarantee
Hiring an attorney may feel like a significant financial decision, especially if you’re already facing a limited income. At Nyman Turkish, we offer a No Fee Guarantee—meaning you won’t pay us unless we win your case. Our fee is regulated and paid directly by the SSA, which amounts to a percentage of your back pay, capped at 25% or $9,200. There are no upfront costs, and you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket.
Fierce Advocacy
At Nyman Turkish, we have some of the top rated disability lawyers. Our Firm is a leader in the field, with a significantly higher approval rating than the national average. Our team of attorneys, legal assistants, and case managers are experienced experts in disability law. We handle every client with care and compassion, setting us apart from other law firms. We understand that this is one of the most stressful times in your life, and we provide guidance at every stage of the process—all while keeping your needs and concerns at the forefront.
If you need a lawyer for an upcoming hearing, visit our website or call (877) 529-4773 for a FREE case review.
