If your application for disability benefits has been denied by the Social Security Administration, you have the option to appeal the decision. First, you may file for reconsideration determination, in which a new person will evaluate your SSDI claim and may give you a new decision. If you disagree with the decision, you can file for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
Once you request a hearing, the Social Security office will schedule your hearing either in person or via video teleconference. During the hearing, the judge will ask you various questions regarding your condition and life circumstances. The hearing will be fairly informal and fairly short, but it is important that claimants appear on time and dress appropriately.
Is important that you are well-informed with regards to your medical condition. Particularly, you will need to make sure that you can clearly explain how your condition affects your ability to work. No one will know as much about your health and lifestyle as you do. It is important that you review your application to make sure nothing was accidentally left out and be prepared to explain your condition to the best of your ability.
As you are explaining your condition, it is important to give the judge a clear picture of what is happening by using specifics. While over-exaggeration is not encouraged, it is important that you are not downplaying or leaving out details. You may also consider using a vocational expert to testify on your behalf as to how your condition negatively affects work-related activities.
