1. Know What to Expect at the Hearing

An SSDI hearing usually lasts between 45 minutes to an hour and may be held in person, by video, or by phone. You, your representative, and sometimes vocational or medical experts will be present. The ALJ will ask about:

• Your medical conditions and how they affect daily life.
• Your work history and why you can no longer perform those jobs.
• Your treatment efforts and compliance with medical advice.

2. Review Your Case File in Advance

Request a copy of your SSA file before the hearing. Go over:

• Medical records to ensure they are complete and up to date.
• Work history reports to confirm accuracy.
• Any previous SSA notes that might influence the judge’s view.

3. Strengthen Your Medical Evidence

A strong case is built on solid medical proof. Make sure to:

• Submit recent doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.
• Obtain statements from your physicians describing your limitations in detail.
• Include evidence of ongoing treatment to show that your condition is persistent.

4. Practice Your Testimony

The judge will want to hear your own words about your limitations. You should:

• Be honest and specific—avoid vague answers like “I can’t do anything.”
• Use examples from daily life, such as “I can only stand for 10 minutes before my back pain forces me to sit.”
• Avoid exaggeration, but also don’t minimize your struggles.

5. Prepare for Vocational Expert Questions

In many New York hearings, a vocational expert (VE) will testify about jobs you might still be able to do. Your representative can challenge the VE’s conclusions, but you should be ready to explain why you can’t perform certain work.

6. Address New York–Specific Factors

• Hearing wait times in cities like New York City, Albany, and Buffalo can be long, so be ready to update medical records before your date.
• Local judges may have different questioning styles—an attorney familiar with your hearing office can help you prepare for that.