If your application was again denied after reconsideration, you may appeal that decision by requesting a formal hearing conducted before an administrative law judge, who had no part in the original decision or the reconsideration of your case. The hearing is usually held at an Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR) office. By law, you have the right to have an attorney or non-attorney representative present to assist you in demonstrating why you should receive SSDI and/or SSI benefits. Prior to the hearing, the judge will review your SSA case file. To ensure a fair hearing, it is critically important that your medical records are complete and accurate, and that any other evidence has been given to the ODAR office or SSA.
The disability experts at Craig Swapp & Associates are ready and willing to help your with your ODAR hearing. We will build a solid case for you, ensure your SSA files are accurate and up-to-date, obtain pertinent reports or forms from your doctors, and prepare you (and any witnesses) for the actual hearing. At the hearing, our job is to thoroughly present your situation and history to the ODAR judge, guide you through the any questioning, and be ready to counter any contrary arguments by the government’s vocational or medical experts. After the hearing, the ODAR judge will make his or her decision, which may take several weeks. The SSA will notify you of the decision through the mail, along with a copy of the judge’s decision. If you disagree with the decision, we can appeal your case to the Appeals Council.
Your ODAR hearing is often your best chance to win SSDI/SSI benefits. That’s why it’s always best to have an expert disability representative/attorney from Craig Swapp & Associates sitting next to you. Call us today for a FREE consultation.
