What Is a Disability Hearing?

A disability hearing is a formal meeting with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who will review your claim and decide whether to approve your Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI or SSI). This hearing is part of the appeals process and usually takes place after your initial application and reconsideration have been denied.

The hearing is typically less formal than a courtroom trial, but it’s still a legal proceeding that plays a critical role in the decision-making process.

Where Does the Hearing Take Place?

Your disability hearing may be held:

• In person at a local hearing office
• By video conference
• By telephone (especially in recent years due to scheduling flexibility)

The SSA will notify you of the hearing format, date, and time well in advance.

Who Will Be at the Hearing?

A typical hearing includes:

• The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) – The person making the decision on your case
• You – The claimant
• Your disability lawyer or advocate (if you have one)
• A vocational expert – Someone who testifies about your ability to work given your limitations
• A medical expert – Sometimes included to interpret your medical records or testify about your condition
• A hearing reporter or clerk – To record the proceedings

The hearing is private, meaning it’s not open to the public, and only those directly involved in your case will attend.

What Questions Will the Judge Ask?

The ALJ will ask you questions about:

• Your medical conditions and how they affect your daily life
• Your work history and why you can no longer perform your previous jobs
• Your education and training
• Your ability to perform basic activities like sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentrating, or interacting with others
• Your treatment history and whether you're following medical advice

Be honest, detailed, and consistent. The judge wants to understand how your condition impacts your ability to work.

What Role Do Experts Play in the Hearing?

• Vocational Experts (VEs) will give their opinion on whether someone with your limitations could perform any type of work in the national economy.
• Medical Experts (MEs) may be called to interpret your records and confirm whether your condition meets or equals a listed impairment.

Your representative (if you have one) can cross-examine these experts and challenge opinions that don’t align with your medical evidence.

How Long Does the Hearing Last?

Most disability hearings last between 45 minutes to an hour, though some can be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of your case and the number of witnesses.

Will I Get a Decision at the Hearing?

Not usually. Most of the time, the judge will not issue a decision on the spot. Instead, you’ll receive a written decision in the mail, usually within 2 to 3 months after the hearing.

There are three possible outcomes:

• Fully Favorable – You’re approved for benefits with the onset date you claimed
• Partially Favorable – You’re approved, but with a later onset date than you requested
• Unfavorable – Your claim is denied

How to Prepare for Your Disability Hearing

• Review your case file: Know what medical records and work history the judge will see.
• Practice answering questions: A lawyer or advocate can help you prepare honest, focused responses.
• Bring updated records: Any new medical visits, test results, or changes in your condition should be submitted before the hearing.
• Arrive early (or log in early if virtual): Give yourself plenty of time to get settled and calm your nerves.