Preparing for Your SSD Hearing

What is an SSD Hearing?

When you file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or both, your application will be reviewed before acceptance or denial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will accept or reject your application. If it is rejected, you can file a request for reconsideration. If your application is denied again, you can request an SSD hearing before a judge.

An SSD hearing, also called an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing, is typically held at an SSA hearing office near you. You may also be able to appear via telephone or through a video call. You will be allowed to testify in your defense, providing evidence of your disability and your need to receive benefits.

Preparing for your SSD hearing is essential and can mean the difference between finally having your benefits accepted or getting denied a third time. If you have questions about your SSD hearing or need help preparing, contact our law office for assistance by calling 480-999-4740 today.

What Will You Testify About at the Hearing?

The judge will review your medical records at your hearing to learn basic information about your medical condition and diagnosis. You will likely testify about your impairment and how it impacts your daily life. You can expect to be asked open-ended questions that you can elaborate on.

You may be asked questions about the following:

Physical or Mental Limitations

The ALJ will likely want to learn more about your limitations, like how long you can walk before resting, how long you can concentrate, and how long you can sit without changing positions.

Symptoms

Your symptoms can impact your ability to hold a job. The ALJ may ask about symptoms like pain, dizziness, fatigue, and confusion.

Medical History

The ALJ may ask you about when you reported your symptoms to medical professionals or what kind of medical treatment you have sought. The judge will likely compare your answers to your medical records.

Daily Activities

Your daily activities paint a clear picture of your activity levels. The judge may ask you about how well you sleep at night, whether you can drive a car, or what kinds of activities you can no longer do because of your condition.

Work History

You will be asked about your work experience over the past 15 years, including your job duties and the skill level required for each job. A vocational expert may be asked to testify about your ability to do these jobs or any other type of work based on your limitations, age, and background.

Training and Education

You will be asked about your education history and the highest level of education you have completed. You will also be asked about formal vocational training, on-the-job training, and military service.

What Are the Best Ways to Prepare for Your Hearing?

Preparing for your hearing is the best way to increase your chances of getting your application approved. Our team can help you prepare for your ALJ hearing by gathering information about your condition and asking you practice questions.

Below are some tips to help you prepare before your hearing:

• Keep a detailed record of your daily activities before your hearing. Include all your activities, including waking up, eating, and sleeping. Document how you feel throughout the day.
• Make a list of activities you used to be able to do but can no longer do because of your impairment.
• Write a detailed list of your job experience from the past 15 years.
• List all medications you take and have taken in the past.

How Can an Attorney Help You?

Getting approved for SSI and SSDI benefits can be a complex process. If you have been rejected twice already, consulting an attorney is your best course of action before attending your SSD hearing. A member of our team can work with you to coach you on answering questions before a judge for the highest chance of success.

At Roeschke Law, we understand how frustrating it can be to apply for Social Security benefits. We are committed to helping our clients through the process to increase their chances of getting accepted. To learn more, contact us at 480-999-4740.