A glimmer of hope for Social Security disability applicants
Just the other day, Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, provided a glimmer of hope to the individuals representing the 687,437 Social Security Disability cases pending at the time of his statement. In his statement, he suggested that not only are the number of unresolved cases the lowest since 2005, but the average length of time that individuals are required to wait for a final decision in their disability matter has been decreased by 72 days. So this reduces the waiting period for a decision by more than 2 months, which is certainly a welcomed change.
The Social Security Administration appears to have turned over a new leaf, but how has this reduction in the backlog been achieved? In my mind, the hiring of additional personnel and the implementation of video hearings have both been an integral part of a backlog reduction plan. If all goes well and things continue at this rate, this enormous backlog that we have seen in the last few years will be dramatically reduced in the coming years. Even in my practice, we seem to be moving through cases rather quickly – which is good because our clients are finally being awarded the benefits they deserve but bad because we often see weeks in which we are attending five hearings in a week’s time!
One solution: video hearings
As I mentioned above, the hiring of new personnel and the implementation of video hearings seems to have had a positive effect on this backlog. But for those of you who have not heard of the video hearing, allow me to briefly explain.
A hearing is obviously the venue where individual positions are voiced and expressed. These typically occur in a hearing room with a Judge and/or expert witnesses like the medical expert or the vocational expert. The hearing room is similar to a conference room. The Judge is often positioned at the end of the table. Sitting next to the claimant will be his/her attorney and/or representative. Medical Experts (MEs), Vocational Experts (VEs), as well as any additional witnesses may be visible and present testimony during the hearing.
However, video hearings are a little bit different in that in a video hearing, the Judge may be hundreds of miles away. However, do not be fooled by the distance; a Judge can still see and hear you, observe your behaviors and movements, and render an accurate decision in your case. While some may not be comfortable with the idea of having a hearing remotely, I highly recommend these types of hearings since they 1) save time and 2) can prevent you as the claimant from having to travel long distances just to get to a hearing where a Judge will be present in person.
For additional pros associated with having a video hearing, please refer to this helpful online pamphlet released by the SSA on why you should have your hearing by video.