What questions are asked at a disability hearing?

It can be stressful getting ready for a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hearing.
Here’s what you should know:

The hearing is a key step in appealing a denied Social Security disability claim, and doing well is important because it’s often the last chance to get your benefits approved. The purpose of the hearing is for an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to understand your medical condition and how it affects your life. 

Expect the ALJ to ask you many questions.

Think of it as a discussion, not a formal courtroom trial. It’s a private meeting with only a few people there. The ALJ will likely begin by asking you questions, and then your attorney can ask questions. This is your opportunity to explain your disabilities and how they impact your daily life.

Here are common topics and questions you might be asked:

Work History

• How long did you work?
• When did you stop working?
• Have you tried to go back to work since you stopped?

Earnings Records

• Have you received any income since you stopped working?
• What kind of income?
• Did any of your income come from employment?

Past Job Duties

• How often did you sit, stand, and walk in your previous job?
• Did you push, pull, or lift things?
• If you lifted objects, how often and how heavy were they?

Lifestyle Limitations

• How has your condition limited your daily activities?
• Can you bathe, cook, clean, drive, or run errands without help?
• How have your activities changed since your condition developed?

Medical Treatment and Diagnoses

• What conditions are keeping you from working?
• Have you sought medical treatment for these conditions?
• Have you experienced any complications?
• Are you currently taking any medications?
• Is your condition getting worse?

Tips for Preparing

• Review your file: Go over your application, medical records, and any communication with the SSA.
• Create a cheat sheet: Bring documents to help you remember important details. This could include your application, medical records, and notes.
• Provide updated medical records: Ensure the ALJ has your current medical information.
• Consider a doctor’s statement: Get a recent statement from your doctor about your condition and how it impacts your ability to work.
• Practice answering questions: Preparing and practicing your answers can help you feel more confident. A cheat sheet can help you remember important details.
• Be clear and detailed: When answering questions, provide specific examples. For instance, instead of saying you can’t walk far, explain how far you can walk before needing to rest.
• Take care of yourself: Get enough rest, eat well, and do things that help you relax.

Remote Hearings

• Many disability hearings now take place virtually, either by phone or online.
• This means you might be able to have a lawyer from another state.

If you’re nervous, keep in mind that having a lawyer can ease your anxiety. Lawyers know how to present your case, answer the judge’s questions, and question vocational experts.

If you are anxious about your disability hearing, having professional representation can help. An experienced SSDI attorney has heard the questions an ALJ might ask dozens, if not hundreds, of times and can help you adequately prepare.

If your disability hearing is fast approaching and you need representation, please reach out! Our representatives are hear to help.