1. Understand the Hearing Process

At your SSDI hearing:

• You will testify under oath about your medical conditions, daily limitations, and work history
• The ALJ will review your entire case file and ask clarifying questions
• A Vocational Expert (VE) may testify about the types of work you could perform despite your limitations
• Your attorney or representative can ask additional questions to strengthen your testimony

2. Review Your Case File Thoroughly

Before your hearing:

• Request a copy of your full SSA file to understand what evidence is included
• Identify any missing, outdated, or incomplete medical records that need to be updated
• Make notes of key points you want to emphasize or clarify at your hearing

3. Gather Updated Medical Evidence

Strong medical evidence is critical to winning your case:

• Obtain recent treatment notes, test results, imaging studies, and specialist evaluations
• Ask your treating doctor for a detailed medical source statement outlining:
• Your diagnosis and treatment
• Symptoms and how they impact your daily life and work ability
• Specific functional limitations (e.g., inability to stand or sit for long periods, limited lifting capacity, concentration difficulties)

Include records from all providers, including specialists, therapists, and mental health professionals, to present a full picture of your condition.

4. Prepare Your Personal Testimony

Practice explaining:

• When your condition began and how it progressed
• How your symptoms affect your daily activities and ability to work
• Why you are unable to return to your previous work or perform other types of jobs
• Side effects of medications and how they impact your functioning

Provide specific examples, such as:

“I can only stand for about 10 minutes before I need to sit down due to severe leg pain, and after 15 minutes of sitting, my back pain forces me to lie down for relief.”

5. Meet with Your Representative

If you have an attorney or advocate:

• They will review your file with you, identify weaknesses, and gather any additional necessary evidence
• They can conduct mock questioning so you feel comfortable and confident at the hearing

6. Prepare Logistically for Your Hearing Day

On the day of your hearing:

• Arrive 30 minutes early if it is in-person
• If it is a phone or video hearing:
• Ensure your phone or device is fully charged and working properly
• Be in a quiet, private location without distractions
• Dress neatly and have your notes and medical documents organized for easy reference

7. Consider Bringing a Witness

If you have someone who observes your daily struggles, such as a family member or caregiver, discuss with your representative whether their testimony would support your case effectively.