When you file for Social Security Disability coverage, chances are you will have to appeal a denial at least one time. To do so, you will need to retain an attorney to help you appeal. When you appeal, you will hopefully get a hearing. It is important that you know what you are going to say when you get to your hearing. The way in which you answer the questions asked by the judge can impact the result of your hearing. Here are some things you need to know before you go to your hearing:
Answer Questions About Your Background
One thing the judge will want to know about is your background. This is an easy set of questions to answer. They will want to know your full name, your age, how much education you have received, whether or not you are married, if you own your home, and other personal information. An attorney can help you prepare these answers.
Your Employment History
The judge will also ask some questions about your employment. The Social Security Administration will look at your history to see if you have any work experience that you could do in your current state of health. You will be asked about the type of work you have done, your duties, any physical requirements, and the like.
What Constitutes Your Disability
The judge will ask you to talk about your current disability. This will be the longest part of your hearing. The questions will pertain to your injuries, what caused your disability, the type of medical treatment you are currently receiving, and any limitations you have. He or she will ask how long, if at all, you can stand or sit at a time. The judge will also have some questions about your mental stability.
Your Daily Activities
Finally, the judge will want to hear more about your daily life and what activities are you able to do without assistance. They will want to know if you have any hobbies and what kind, whether or not you can drive a car, if you can bathe and dress yourself, and if you can clean up after yourself. Be specific in answering these questions. For instance, if you answer "yes" when the judge asks you if you can drive, you need to expound on that answer with any limitations you have when driving. If you can only drive for an hour until you begin to have pain, the judge will need to know. Not divulging these details could result in you not receiving your disability benefits. It is always a good idea to hire a social security disability lawyer to help you prepare for these kinds of hearings. They will assist you in all the different aspects of the law so that you can receive the necessary coverage.
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