HOW TO ANSWER QUESTIONS AT YOUR DISABILITY HEARING

You will be asked a long series of questions by the Administrative Law Judge at  your hearing:

• Be respectful at all times.  Don't argue.
• If you don't understand a question, ask that it be repeated or clarified before answering.
• Explain your symptoms and how they affect your daily functioning.
• Don't lie, misrepresent or exaggerate anything....anything.
• Be as specific as possible.  Avoid "occasionally, not very far, a little while," in favor of answers like "about 30 minutes, once or twice a week," or "less than 50 yards."
• Give more than "yes" or "no" answers when needed.

You will be asked about your ability to perform activities of daily living:  driving, cleaning, cooking, bathing, dressing, social activities, caring for your child, etc.  If you can do some of these activities but struggle with them, explain your struggle.  For example, "I do try to clean my house but I can only work about an hour, then I need to rest a while before I continue," if this is true.  Or:  "I can prepare meals but I try to limit them to microwavable dishes that don't require me to be on my feet more than a few minutes."  The admonition is worth repeating here.  never exaggerate, stretch the truth or misrepresent anything.  Credibility is the most important thing you have going for you.