HOW TO ANSWER QUESTIONS AT A HEARING

Disability hearings are conducted by special judges called Administrative Law Judges (ALJs). The hearing will be a question and answer format where the judge will ask you all kinds of questions, trying to decide if you are one of the relatively few claimants who qualify for benefits.

Questions will fall into 4 general categories:

I. PERSONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU

II. QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR PAST JOBS

III. DETAILED QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR IMPAIRMENTS AND SYMPTOMS

IV. QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR ACTIVITIES, HABITS, DAILY ROUTINES, AND LIMITATIONS OF FUNCTION.

So, what are the rules for answering questions at a hearing?

1. Be direct and don't ramble. Answer the question without giving too much detail. If the judge wants more details he/she will ask for them later.

2. Be honest. Avoid exaggeration. Never, ever lie or give misleading answers. Probably the worst thing you could do. It will get you a denial.

3. Don't be offended by the questions. You may be asked about drinking, smoking or if you have been arrested. If the answer is no, simply say No. These are "Yes" or "No" questions. IF the judge wants more detail, he/she will ask for them.

4. Try to use words that have defined meanings. Avoid generalities, such as a little bit, a lot, once in a while, not very often, or occasionally. Better: "About 20 minutes; twice a week," or "less than 10 pounds."

5. Try to be consistent. For example, don't say "I can't sit for more than 20 minutes," then later say, "I drove to Florida this summer on vacation." That seems like a contradiction.

6. Never, ever answer a question that you don't understand. Ask for the question to be repeated or explained if it isn't clear to you.

You should spend some time with your attorney/representative prior to hearing day to get yourself prepared for a successful hearing. Most people get only one hearing. You can't afford to be poorly prepared.

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The Forsythe Firm's advocates have assisted thousands of claimants in Social Security disability hearings with an excellent success rate. We never charge a fee unless you win and also receive back pay. Call for a FREE consultation.

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