Social Security Disability Law: News and Facts

Since the beginning of  the COVID-19 pandemic I have not help in-person meetings with clients or had any in person hearings. My office  continues to conduct work by telephone, e-mail, mail, and by zoom videoconferencing.  I arrange for documents to be dropped off and  I find out door places to meet you for necessary in-person contacts. Social Security’s offices, including the hearing offices, remain closed for almost all purposes.  Disability hearings have been held by telephone conferences since April 2020. The Social Security Administration has started to roll out a video-conferencing hearing option in which the parties can appear from separate locations using the Microsoft Teams platform. I have spoke with some judges and they have had problems with to many people on the video hearing. It was easier if the Claimant was on video and the judge was on video and everyone else was on the telephone.  I have been hearing for some time, even before Covid-19, tha...

One of the biggest changes is that Social Security Hearings will now take place over the telephone or by video using a home computer. I have compiled some tips for appearing for your hearing over the telephone or video hearing. Location.  Get prepared atleast 15 minutes before your hearing time. Make sure you are in a quiet place with good cell phone service where you can sit comfortably and fully engage in the process. Find a place that is quiet. Do not have the TV on. Do not have your pets near you.  Patience Wait your turn when speaking. These hearings are recorded and if people speak over each other, it causes problems. The best approach is to let the ALJ finish asking the question and wait a few seconds to respond. It is important to think about the question that is asked to you. Time is of the Essence . Be available thirty minutes prior to your hearing. Sometimes there are technology challenges delay hearing start times, so be prepared to be available beyond your schedu...