The Social Security Disability Hearing
If your request for reconsideration of Social Security's denial of your disability is also denied, you can appeal further by requesting a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). The ALJ will take a fresh look at your claim and any new medical evidence you've submitted, and make a decision after asking you and a vocational expert questions at the hearing.
You have a much better chance of winning disability benefits at the disability hearing than any other step. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to get a hearing date.
About Disability Hearings
A Social Security disability hearing is an informal meeting where the judge asks questions.
Here's what an administrative law judge, vocational expert and medical expert does.
Learn about the possible decisions the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) may make after a Social Security Disability hearing.
Here's what you'll receive from the ALJ after your disability hearing.
Scheduling and Expediting Disability Hearings
Learn how to get your Social Security Disability case in front of a judge, where you'll have the best chance at winning benefits.
There are several ways to expedite an ALJ hearing.
Representing Yourself at a Disability Hearing
Here are some tips to help you prepare for questions the judge may ask at your disability hearing.
While you are not required to have representation at a Social Security Disability hearing, your chances of winning may be greatly improved if you do.
Questions About Disability Hearings
The testimony of the vocational expert at your Social Security disability hearing can make or break your case.
Here are some steps to ensure you have the best chance of winning disability benefits at your hearing.
Advanced Strategies Used by Lawyers at Disability Hearings
While moderate depression or anxiety doesn't qualify for Social Security disability on its own, it can help you qualify if you have a physical disability as well.
Make sure Social Security only certain past jobs when considering what transferable job skills you have.
How to prove to Social Security that you can't do other work because you don't have the transferable job skills.
Resources for Disability Hearings
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability: Getting & Keeping Your Benefits
This book tells you how to request a hearing-level appeal, including sample forms, and how to handle a hearing, including answering and asking questions and requesting medical or vocational experts to testify on your behalf.
This book tells you how to request a hearing-level appeal, including sample forms, and how to handle a hearing, including answering and asking questions and requesting medical or vocational experts to testify on your behalf.
Editorial Information
The information provided on this site is managed by attorney and editor, Bethany K. Laurence. Even though we strive to give you the best quality information, you should always talk to a disability lawyer for advice about your specific claim.