When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplement Security Income (SSI) benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA), your initial application may be denied. In fact, many applicants are denied at first and their applications are not approved until they attend a hearing.
To help you prepare for this hearing, we have compiled a list of some of the questions you may be asked about your situation.
Our firm has advocated on behalf of many disability claimants over the years. We know what the SSA is looking for and what it takes to get our clients the benefits they need. The initial consultation is free without any obligation to have us represent you. There are no fees unless we win.
Learn more by calling (920) 215-4788.
Questions Often Asked at Social Security Disability Hearings
There are various questions you may be asked about your medical condition, ability to work and other issues. You need to establish you meet the criteria for being awarded disability benefits.
For instance, you may be asked the following:
- What daily symptoms do you experience?
- When do your symptoms occur?
- How long do these symptoms last?
- Do you experience fatigue?
- Do you need to rest in bed or a special chair when you are at home during the day?
- Are you able to cook and clean up after cooking?
- What chores are you unable to do at home?
- What is your pain level on your worst day?
- How many times per month do you have days like this?
- What is your pain level on your best days?
- How long are you able to sit, walk, stand or move around?
- Do you have any problems walking up or down stairs?
- Do you experience discomfort when doing these things?
- Do you have to sit down after walking?
- Do you struggle to walk over uneven surfaces?
You will also get questions about your job history, such as:
- Are you working right now?
- How does your medical condition prevent you from returning to work?
- Do you need to take breaks at work because of your disability? How often?
- How much are you able to lift or carry and how often are you able to do this?
- What formal education or vocational training have you received?
You may also be questioned about your financial situation. This is particularly relevant if you have applied for SSI, which is meant for claimants with low income who may not have paid enough Social Security taxes to be covered.
You may need to answer the following questions:
- What is your current living situation?
- Who lives with you?
- What are your household expenses?
- What sources of income do you have?
- Do you own any vehicles?
- If married, what are your spouse’s sources of income?
- Do you have any other investments?
- And more
How Do I Prepare for My Disability Hearing?
It is important to gather the names, addresses and contact details of all the places you have received medical care for your condition (i.e. emergency rooms, hospitals and doctor’s offices).
This includes medical documents that show proof that your condition is severe. If possible, obtain a written statement from your treating doctor(s) that contains specific information about your diagnosis. For instance, how your condition affects your ability to work and function on a day-to-day basis.
Be sure to also come prepared with the names, business addresses and phone numbers of your past employment supervisors. It helps to have this information written down instead of trying to remember everything. If it is possible, get statements from previous employers and family members that contain relevant details about how your condition impacts your life.
Sigman Janssen is Here to Help You Get Benefits
Applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming, which is why it helps to have someone on your side. An experienced Green Bay Social Security Disability lawyer is ready to prepare you for your disability interview. You can learn more about how we may be able to assist you in a free case review.
If you have a valid claim, there are zero upfront fees to retain our services. We only get paid if we are successful in helping you obtain the disability benefits you need.
Available 24/7 to take your call: (920) 215-4788.