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

What Happens at a Social Security Disability Hearing?

The ALJ may ask questions of a vocational expert, a medical expert, and you.
The Social Security Disability Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Administrative Law Judges (or ALJ's, for short) are appointed by, and work for, the federal government, delivering rulings in many areas of statutory law.
The Importance of Vocational Expert Testimony at a Disability Hearing

The testimony of the vocational expert at your Social Security disability hearing can make or break your case.

Scheduling and Expediting Disability Hearings

What Is the Average Wait Time for a Disability Hearing?

Find out the current average wait time for an appeal hearing in your area.
How to Request a Social Security Disability Appeal Hearing

Learn how to get your Social Security Disability case in front of a judge, where you'll have the best chance at winning benefits.

Representing Yourself at a Disability Hearing

How to Answer Questions at a Social Security Disability Hearing

Here are some tips to help you prepare for questions the judge may ask at your disability hearing.
Preparing for a Social Security Disability Hearing

When you get notice of your hearing date, get up-to-date medical records and submit them.

Questions About Disability Hearings

What Can I Do to Improve My Chances of Winning at a Disability Hearing?

Here are some steps to ensure you have the best chance of winning disability benefits at your hearing.
Can Letters From Family and Friends Help My Disability Case at a Hearing?

While supportive letters from family and friends are usually disregarded by the judge, letters from employers and caregivers can help.
Should I Agree to a Video Hearing for My Disability Hearing or Demand an In-Person Hearing?

Having your disability appeal hearing in person rather than by video is probably in your best interests.

Advanced Strategies Used by Lawyers at Disability Hearings

Proving You Can't Do Your Past Work at a Disability Hearing

You'll have to prove to Social Security that you don't have the RFC to be able to perform your past job as you performed it or as it's generally performed.
Ruling Out Other Work at Your Disability Hearing Because You Don't Have the Job Skills

How to prove to Social Security that you can't do other work because you don't have the transferable job skills.

Talk to a Disability Lawyer

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