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.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Social Security Disability Appeal?

Although not required, having a Social Security Disability appeal lawyer will greatly improve your chances of winning your disability claim.

Can't Work But Were Denied Disability? Good Reasons You're Unable to Work

Make sure you know which reasons for not being able to work are good to talk about at your disability hearing.

Social Security Disability Hearing: How to Act Before a Judge

Be polite and concise, and most importantly, answer the judge's questions.

Reviewing Your Social Security Disability File Before an Appeal

To prepare for your appeal, request a copy of your disability file from Social Security and review it for errors.

Should You Bring a Witness to Your Disability Appeal Hearing?

You aren't required to bring witnesses to your disability hearing, but in some cases, they can be helpful to your case.

How to Write a Prehearing Brief for Your Disability Appeal

Giving the disability judge a summary of the points you want to make can help your disability appeal.

Questioning the VE's Testimony About Other Work at a Disability Hearing

Being able to challenge a VE's proposed jobs at a disability hearing is key to winning your claim.

Getting Disability by Arguing You Can't Even Do Sedentary Work

If you have physical or mental limitations that prevent you from doing even sit-down work, you should be approved for disability benefits.

Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability: Getting & Keeping Your Benefits

Nolo's book covers how to prepare for your SSDI or SSI disability hearing, including how to request a hearing, request and review your disability file, choose witnesses, come up with a theory why you should be granted benefits, and prepare to cross-examine the vocational expert at your hearing.