The disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) is your best chance for approval. Most people who win benefits do so at this stage. Here's how to prepare.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What happens at a hearing
- How to prepare
- What the ALJ will ask
- Tips for success
1. What Happens at a Hearing
The setting:
- Usually in an SSA hearing office
- Or by video conference
- Or by telephone
- Relatively informal
Who's there:
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- You (the claimant)
- Your representative (if you have one)
- Hearing reporter
- Possibly medical expert (ME)
- Possibly vocational expert (VE)
The format:
- ALJ opens and explains
- You testify about your conditions
- Your representative asks questions
- ALJ asks questions
- Experts testify (if present)
- Closing statements
Length:
- Usually 30-60 minutes
- Depends on complexity
- Can be longer
- Don't rush
2. How to Prepare
Review your file:
- Request your SSA file
- Read the medical records
- Know what's in there
- Identify gaps or errors
Prepare your testimony:
- How conditions limit you
- Daily activities
- What you can't do
- Why you can't work
Organize your thoughts:
- List your conditions
- List your limitations
- Examples of struggles
- Worst days vs. typical days
Practice describing:
- Your typical day
- Your worst symptoms
- Why you stopped working
- What happens when you try activities
Bring documents:
- Updated medical records
- Any new evidence
- List of medications
- Doctor contact info
Important: The hearing is your chance to tell your story. Make sure the ALJ understands how disability affects your daily life.
3. What the ALJ Will Ask
About your conditions:
- What are your medical problems?
- How long have you had them?
- How do they affect you?
- What treatment do you receive?
About daily activities:
- Describe a typical day
- What can you do for yourself?
- What do you need help with?
- How do you spend your time?
About physical limitations:
- How far can you walk?
- How long can you sit or stand?
- Can you lift or carry?
- Do you need to lie down?
About mental limitations:
- Concentration problems?
- Memory issues?
- How do you handle stress?
- Do you interact with others?
About work:
- Why did you stop working?
- Have you tried to work since?
- What happened?
- Could you work now?
About treatment:
- Do you follow treatment?
- If not, why?
- Does treatment help?
- Side effects?
4. Tips for Success
Be honest:
- Don't exaggerate
- Don't minimize
- Be accurate
- Credibility is crucial
Be specific:
- "I can only sit 15 minutes" not "I can't sit long"
- Numbers and specifics help
- Give examples
- Be concrete
Describe your worst days:
- Hearings may be good days
- Explain typical and worst days
- Don't appear more capable than usual
- Be clear about fluctuations
Listen carefully:
- To the entire question
- Answer what's asked
- Ask for clarification if needed
- Don't ramble
Be respectful:
- Address ALJ appropriately
- Be polite
- Stay calm
- Even if frustrated
Have representation:
- Attorney or representative helpful
- They know the process
- Can question experts
- Paid only if you win
After the Hearing
Decision timeline:
- Usually 1-3 months
- Can be longer
- You'll receive written decision
- May be approved or denied
If approved:
- Back pay calculated
- Monthly benefits begin
- Understand what you'll receive
- Next steps explained
If denied:
- Can appeal to Appeals Council
- Then federal court
- Consider getting attorney
- Don't give up
How Purple Helps
Purple supports you through the process:
- Manage finances while waiting
- Track expenses for the hearing
- Be ready when approved
- Early access to benefits
- Simple money management