Deland Social Security administrative hearings can start after an applicant has been denied benefits at the initial and reconsideration levels. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for an administrative hearing.
So, you have been denied Social Security benefits. Now what? The first thing you need to do is request a hearing. These hearings are overseen by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), and you can request one online and download the required forms.
Preparing For Your Hearing
The first thing you will need to do is get a copy of your Social Security file, if you have not already received one from the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO). It is imperative that you reach out to the OHO immediately after receiving a notice of your Deland Social Security administrative hearings. This will ensure you have enough time to order any missing medical records.
If you are unsure what records are missing and which ones you need to order, you can find out by reviewing the “Medical Record” section located in your file. Once you have located the “Medical Record” section, the “F exhibits” section lists all of the medical records the Social Security Administration and OHO have on file for you.
Review Your Records
The judge assigned to your case will carefully review your file, and you should do the same. Your file is filled with information regarding your diagnosis (symptoms, medical testings, and medical history) that the judge will use to form questions.
A judge at Deland Social Security administrative hearings might ask you questions about specific instances your doctor has noted in your file. Your doctor may have mentioned any vacations you have taken, lifestyle changes you have made, hobbies you have taken up, etc. You will want to review your doctor’s statements and any notes he or she has taken in order to prepare the best response to a question the judge might ask you.
At Culbertson Law Group, our experienced attorneys will review your medical records for you and bring attention to any questions the judge could potentially have.
If you have a doctor who recognizes your disability, ask them if they would be willing to write a letter showing their support. In the letter, he or she can go into detail about your condition; they can use the letter to explain who they are to you and how long they have been working with you. Deland Social Security administrative hearings will include your doctor’s testimonial regarding your diagnosis.
Culbertson Law Group has served Central Florida and surrounding areas for over 40 years. Contact us today to see how we can help you with your Deland Social Security administrative hearings.