Preparing for your Social Security disability hearing can be stressful. Understanding what to expect can make a big difference.
As attorney Andrew Kinney of Hoglund Law Offices explains, the Internet has a lot of bad and misleading information about what to expect at your Social Security Disability hearing. Your hearing isn’t a test that requires the “right answers.” A good Social Security Disability lawyer will not speak for you. Instead, your lawyer at your hearing will argue your claim so you can focus on the facts.
At your hearing, you will help your judge understand:
- How your medical issues impacted your ability to work, and
- How your medical issues limit your day-to-day activities at home.
With over 30 years of experience and over 10,000 hearings under his belt, Andrew Kinney offers valuable insights into how to prepare for your hearing.
- Continue Medical Treatment
Long before your hearing, stay consistent with medical treatment. Social Security relies heavily on your medical treatment records to determine if you’re truly disabled. Be clear with your providers about all your symptoms and limitations. If you stop seeing doctors or specialists, especially for chronic conditions like migraines or back pain, SSAThe Social Security Administration (SSA) is a U.S. government agency that administers social programs covering disability, retirement, and survivors' benefits. It was created in 1935 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. might assume you are better—even when you aren’t.
If you have a long-term medical issue (such as an old knee or back injury) that’s gotten worse, be proactive and update your care team. You may need updated imaging, like X-rays or MRIs, to document how you are now. You may also need updated, specialized diagnostic testing, such as for autism or fibromyalgia. If you go too long without medical treatment for certain medical problems, you may not have enough updated medical evidence to prove they still limit you.
Kinney states that the groundwork for a strong Social Security Disability claim is set when you ask for the right medical help and fight to get better. Good medical treatment with providers you trust is essential.
- Understand What Hearings Are Really About
When your Social Security Disability hearing is scheduled, do not memorize details or rehearse. Rather, Kinney emphasizes that you:
- Be yourself,
- Be ready to talk openly about your different medical issues, and
- Be ready to give examples of what you struggle to do.
Social Security judges will already have your medical records. They need information about how your medical issues have changed your life at home. Think about your life before and after you stopped working. Can you still do chores, run errands, or enjoy hobbies like you used to? If not, why?
- Be Specific About Your Limitations
Think in practical terms. For example:
- How long can you stand before I need to sit?
- How often do you have symptoms like seizures or panic attacks?
- Can I be around other people comfortably? Why not?
- What kinds of tasks are now too difficult or exhausting?
Real-life details matter. Although you may not have considered it, think of how frequently you have symptoms and how long they last. For example, do you have migraines more than once per week? How long do they usually last? These details can be crucial. Think about them.
- Know Your Rights
Even if your hearing is already scheduled, you still have the right to get legal representation. If you don’t have an attorney yet, you can notify the hearing office and request a postponement to find one. Showing up to your first hearing unrepresented doesn’t mean you’re stuck. It’s okay to ask for time to find an experienced lawyer.
Final Thoughts
Your hearing isn’t about trick questions or reading speeches. It is your opportunity to share how your health has changed your life. According to Andrew Kinney, with consistent medical care, your hearing is usually the best chance to get approved for Social Security Disability and SSISSI stands for Supplemental Security Income. Social Security administers this program. We pay monthly benefits to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Blind or disabled children may also get SSI. benefits. At hearings, Social Security is finally listening to you. You have the right to get the best legal help possible. Be ready.
Our lawyers at Hoglund Law Offices help clients across the country get approved for Social Security Disability and SSI benefits. No matter where you live, you can call us at 888-373-8806.
