Social Security Disability Hearing: How to Best Prepare Yourself

It’s a week before your Social Security Disability hearing – what do you do now? How do you prepare? To help put your nerves at ease, there are several pieces of advice to help you navigate the days prior to your hearing to ensure it runs smoothly and you do not come across any issues. Getting yourself prepared the days leading up your hearing is very important and can help reduce stress. First of all, make sure you have spoken with your attorney (if you are represented) prior to the hearing. Likely you have been updating your attorney’s office with medical visits and other relevant information; however, it is important to make sure to connect with them days before the hearing to confirm all information is in your file and understand the theory of your case. Another piece of advice prior to the hearing is to know your hearing location. This is especially true if the hearing location is in a downtown area or an area that you have never been. You do not want to be lost the day of the hearing. Along with connecting with your attorney and knowing your hearing location, you should gather all materials you may need for the hearing in the days prior. This may include photo identification, updated medication list, hearing notice, and any other information your attorney may have asked you to bring such as paystubs, etc. Overall, following this advice and using these tips will surely help make the day of your hearing run more smoothly.