Prepare for your Social Security Disability hearing over the phone. Find actionable tips and guidance to help win your disability claim.
When the time comes for a disability hearing, you might be contemplating the option of a phone hearing, which involves you, your attorney, a vocational expert, and the Disability Judge. This article provides an in-depth insight into disability hearings conducted over the phone.
Can You Have a Disability Hearing Over the Phone?
Absolutely! Social Security Disability hearings can be conducted over the telephone instead of having an in-person meeting at an Administrative Court.
Pros and Cons of Disability Hearing Over the Phone
Pros of Telephone Hearings
- Comfort: You can discuss your disability from the comfort of your home.
- Quicker Hearing Date: You are likely to get a hearing date much sooner than an in-person hearing.
- Objective Decision Making: The Judge decides your claim based on your file, testimony, and records rather than your physical appearance.
- No Travel Hassles: Avoid dealing with traffic, parking, walking to the hearing office, and court security.
Cons of Telephone Hearings
- Case Transfer: Your disability case could potentially be transferred to any hearing office across the country.
- Communication Barriers: Slow internet or bad service could hinder accurate communication with the Judge.
What to Expect During a Phone Hearing for Disability
The Social Security Administration outlines that the Administrative Law Judge will swear in all participants, listen to your testimony and any witnesses, ask necessary questions, and give you (or your attorney) the opportunity to ask questions during the hearing.
How to Prepare for a Disability Hearing Over the Phone
1. Retain a Qualified Social Security Disability Lawyer
The social security disability attorneys at Evans Disability have successfully represented disabled individuals over the phone for years. We boast a combined experience of over 85 years in Social Security Hearings. We even have a former Social Security Disability Law Judge on our team who now represents clients at hearings on behalf of Evans Disability. To have one of our qualified attorneys represent you, contact Evans Disability at (855) 503-0101.
2. Gather the Necessary Medical Records and Documentation
Ensure that you have requested and gathered all necessary medical records to support your disability claim.
3. Submit All New Medical Evidence Before the Disability Hearing
Submit the latest and most updated medical evidence for your disability to the Social Security Administration before your phone hearing by the requested deadline.
4. Be Familiar with Your Case and Medical Records
Thoroughly acquaint yourself with your case and medical records before your telephone hearing. You may wish to re-read your medical records to answer any questions about your disability accurately.
5. Anticipate Possible Delays on the Day of Your Hearing
Avoid areas with weak Wi-Fi or phone signals during your phone hearing.
Tips for Disability Phone Hearings
- Ensure your phone can receive calls from unlisted/unregistered numbers as the Social Security Administration’s hearing office will call from an unregistered number.
- Keep the hour before, and after, the hearing free to avoid missing any part of your disability hearing.
- Ensure a quiet environment during your phone call.
- Review your past work history in case the judge asks questions about it.
Put your case in the best possible position! Call Evans Disability Today!
The attorneys at Evans Disability have represented clients in thousands of Disability Hearings, contact us at (855) 503-0101.
Disability Hearing over the Phone FAQ
What Questions Are Asked at an SSDI Hearing ?
While each Judge may ask different questions, the primary focus will be on your disability, daily activities, past work history, and past and present medical history and appointments.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Hearing for Disability?
The duration varies, but as mentioned earlier, phone hearings are usually quicker to schedule than in-person hearings.
How Long Does a Disability Hearing Take?
Typically, a disability hearing lasts about an hour.
What Happens After a Disability Hearing?
You will soon find out whether you have qualified for disability. If not, you can appeal the decision.
Should I Agree to a Telephone Hearing?
While telephone hearings have several benefits, such as shorter wait times and objective decision-making, there are also downsides to consider. Evans Disability strongly recommends telephone hearings versus other types of hearings.
How Do I Submit Evidence for a Telephone Hearing?
Submit all personal and medical evidence before the hearing deadline, before the telephone hearing begins.
