Getting a social security disability hearing is a big deal for those applying for SSDI benefits. Many applicants are initially denied on their applications, and the appeals process can take time due to the process involved.
Getting an attorney involved can greatly improve your chances of ultimately receiving benefits and there are ways to expedite your hearing. But, when you do get your social security disability hearing, you will want to make sure that you are fully prepared – including dressing for success and acting in an appropriate way to encourage an approval from the judge.
What to Wear at an SSDI Hearing
A common misconception among those looking to get approved for social security benefits is that they need to appear “poor” at the SSDI hearing. This causes them to wear ragged clothes on purpose in an attempt to convince the judge that they are in need of money.
While it may be true that funds are low in the household without benefits, appearing unkempt isn’t going to improve your chances of getting approved. Judges can see through this tactic and it could actually hurt your chances.
Dressing in an appropriate manner for court shows respect and will ultimately improve your chances of being approved. While you don’t have to necessarily go out and purchase top-notch clothes to wear, dressing in business appropriate, clean and presentable clothes is the best approach.
How to Act at an SSDI Hearing
The most important thing that you can do when the time comes for a social security disability hearing is to show up on time. This means allowing extra time to ensure that you can get to the hearing on time in case there is traffic or other factors involved.
Given the time it takes to get a hearing, and the importance of the event, it makes sense to do everything in your power to show up on time. Showing up late will never sit well with a judge and could negatively impact your chances for being approved.
When asked questions by the judge, telling the truth about the details of your case is always the best approach. The details have already been laid out for the judge, and any attempt to mislead will likely be discovered. Plus, being honest about the situation is genuine and shows a personal side that often plays out well for applicants.
Obviously, you want to be respectful to the judge and never interrupt them, even if the line of questioning gets frustrating. At the same time, make sure that your concerns and the truth of the case does get out there.
Most importantly when talking to a judge, make sure that any lawyerly advice is followed. There’s a reason that having a lawyer involved in the case produces a greater success rate, so it only makes sense to listen to their advice during the hearing itself.
If you have more questions, or need a lawyer involved in your hearing or overall case, get in touch with us today commitment-free at 844-432-0114.