1. Understand What Happens at the Hearing

Your disability hearing is not like a traditional court trial. It is a private, less formal meeting with the ALJ where you will:

• Answer questions about your medical conditions, symptoms, daily activities, and work history
• Present additional medical evidence or records supporting your disability
• Hear testimony from vocational experts (VE) or medical experts (ME) called by SSA, if applicable

2. Review Your Entire Case File

Before your hearing:

• Request and review your entire SSA case file, including all submitted medical records and forms
• Check for missing or outdated medical documentation
• Make notes of any errors or omissions you want to address during the hearing

3. Gather Updated Medical Evidence

Updated medical records are critical to strengthen your claim:

• Request the latest treatment notes, lab results, imaging studies, and specialist evaluations
• Obtain a detailed medical opinion from your treating physician, describing your limitations and how they prevent you from working
• Include any new diagnoses or worsening symptoms since your initial application

4. Prepare Your Personal Testimony

The judge will ask you questions such as:

• What daily activities can you no longer perform without assistance?
• How does your condition limit your ability to stand, walk, sit, lift, or concentrate?
• Why can’t you perform your previous job or any other work?

Practice your answers honestly and clearly. Avoid exaggerating or minimizing your symptoms. Describe your pain levels, fatigue, mobility issues, or cognitive challenges with real-life examples.

5. Understand the Role of Vocational Experts

Vocational experts (VEs) may testify about:

• Whether jobs exist that you can still perform despite your limitations
• The physical and mental demands of your past work

Your representative can cross-examine the VE to argue why their proposed jobs are unrealistic given your functional restrictions.

6. Consider Representation

While you are not required to have a lawyer, statistics show that claimants with professional representation have higher approval rates. An experienced disability attorney or advocate can:

• Prepare and organize your evidence
• Develop legal arguments supporting your case
• Question vocational or medical experts effectively
• Ensure the ALJ hears all relevant facts and understands your limitations

7. Logistical Preparation for Hearing Day

• Confirm the date, time, and whether your hearing is in person, by video, or by phone
• Have your ID, hearing notice, and any additional evidence ready
• Arrive early if in person, or ensure a quiet, private location with strong phone or internet connection if remote
• Dress neatly and be respectful during proceedings