That is really scary for me to go before the judge.
I, too was
very anxious and afraid while waiting for my ALJ hearing. I decided that my fears were based on "the unknown".
To help alleviate my fears I tried to educate myself on the hearing process - for example, finding out what questions are usually asked by the judge, the hypothetical jobs most often suggested by the Vocational Expert for my disabilities, how many minutes does a typical hearing last, etc.
There is an awesome source of that kind of SS disability hearing info online. I know it is not permissible to post url's here so if you want to read up on this, please google:
"social security disability facts forum". You will find most any question regarding the SS disability process already answered by the helpful SSDFacts experts there!
Familiarity and knowledge helped reduce my fears.
I'm afraid I will not be able to convince him/her of my inability to work.
You and your lawyer/representative will have sent the judge all the critical documentation ahead of time, and so the judge will already have reviewed your case file carefully before the hearing. During the hearing, the judge will ask you questions to confirm or clarify what was submitted. Just try to relax, don't be afraid, and simply tell the truth. Also remember that your lawyer will be there right by your side to help you along as necessary.
I'm not even sure ssdi will be a whole lot more money.
The SSA website has online calculators to determine your approximate SSDI benefit. On top of that, don't forget that if you "win" you will probably receive a large lump sum back pay. Both can be quite sizable and significant, especially if like many, you are on limited or no income.
I hope this information has been of some help to anyone in the Social Security disability application process! Hang in there and wishing you all the best of luck!
