Disability hearings typically involve providing substantial evidence that the applicant can’t engage in a gainful activity. They are held before an ALJ judge after the initial application is rejected. The relevant documents are reviewed, and the medical experts give their testimony. Then, the judge issues a written decision.
In recent years, applicants have wanted convenience, which has triggered a shift towards telephone-based hearings. They are quicker to schedule and reduce the backlog of cases. You should note that the pandemic contributed to this shift due to the adjustment of maintaining social distance protocols. This article will discuss the pros and cons of telephone-based disability hearings and the best practices.
The Process of Telephone Hearings
- Disability hearing over the phone starts with scheduling. The SSA notifies the claimant on how to join the call. The ALJ judge submits the relevant documents before the hearing. After that, a telephone check is done to verify connectivity.
- The hearing – The judge initiates a call. He will introduce himself and other staff members and then confirm that everyone involved in the case is present. The claimant and the medical experts can now give their testimony.
- After the hearing, a decision is made, and the claimant receives a copy of the verdict.
The typical duration of a hearing is up to 1 hour if the technical aspects are in place. While the judge is the major decision-maker, other parties like vocational experts, medical teams, representatives, and witnesses may be involved.
Pros of Telephone Hearings
Convenience
Claimants don’t need to travel to the hearing location if they have mobility issues. This reduces the waiting time.
Cost savings
The travel expenses are reduced, so they don’t have to look for overnight accommodation. Secondly, the representatives don’t have to take time off work or cater for meal expenses. Telephone hearings allow faster hearings and quicker resolutions.
Cons of Telephone Hearings
- Since there’s limited personal interaction, the judge is likely to miss verbal cues.
- Network connection may drop, disrupting the flow of hearings.
- A noisy environment can lead to potential misunderstandings. These hearings are also challenging for those who can’t access a reliable phone service.
Best Practices for Telephone Hearings
- Gather essential documents like treatment history, recent evaluations, and notes from specialists. Next, prepare a record of past employment. You can now make personal statements about how the disability affects your ability to work.
- Minimize disturbances: choose a quiet place with no background noises. Use a phone with good sound quality. You may want to consider using a headset for clearer communication.
- Clear communication enables you to present your arguments in the best possible light. When you have organized responses, the ALJ will know you’re serious about your claim. It’s also much easier to ask for clarification if needed.
Conclusion
Telephone hearings for disability claims are convenient, flexible, and cost-effective. You don’t leave the comfort of your home, so your daily routine is not disrupted. However, the claimant may not see the visual cues of the judge. If there are connectivity problems, it can affect the effectiveness of the hearing. In light of this, you should consider the option that best works for you.
