Common Questions at Social Security Hearings

Many applicants lose their initial request for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits. The next step is to appeal the denial to the hearing office for a hearing before an administrative law judge. An experienced Disability lawyer helps prepare the applicant’s case in different ways. The lawyer works with your doctors to properly document your medical evidence. The attorney also helps prepare the applicant by reviewing the questions he/she will likely be asked.

The categories of questions asked

Most hearings begin by asking the applicant questions about their identity and background. Sample questions are:

• Please provide your name, address, and social security number.
• Please state your date of birth, your height and weight.
• How far did you get in school?
• Do you have any vocational or specialty training?

Another set of questions explores your work history and current employment status.

• Please indicate where you worked since you finished school and what type of work you did at the jobs?
• When did you work at those jobs?
• What jobs have you worked at in the last 15 years?
• Are you currently working at any jobs?
• Did you try any jobs since your disabling condition began? If so, what happened? Could you do your job? How long did you try it?
• What were your job duties at the last job you worked?

There will also be questions about your medical history.

• When did your condition or conditions causing your disability begin?
• What doctor diagnosed your condition?
• What is the prognosis for your condition?
• How has the disability progressed with time?
• How does the disability affect your ability to do your job?
• How do you manage your daily tasks including cooking, personal grooming, and cleaning?
• How long can you stand, walk, or sit without having to change positions or stop?
• How much can you carry, lift, or push?
• Can you bend?
• Why can’t you do your prior job?

There also may be questions about your mental health and emotional well-being. Often, a family member, friend, or coworker will also attend the hearing and answer some of these questions about your psychological health.

• Do you have any difficulty concentrating or with memory?
• Do you have any difficulty with anger or sadness?
• Have you ever had difficulty communicating or interacting with coworkers, the public, your bosses, family, or friends?

You may also be asked about any problems or treatment for using alcohol or drugs.

Knowing what questions might be asked can help clients calm their nerves. It also helps them present their best case before the ALJ.

There is no cost to you to pursue a Social Security Disability claim. Plaxen Adler Muncy, PA in Maryland offers our services on a contingency basis, and the federal government sets our fees. Successful claimants receive a check every month and, in most cases, a check for back benefits. We receive legal fees out of those back benefits only. We welcome the opportunity to speak to you about your Social Security Disability claim. Please call us at 410-730-7737 or contact us.