ALJ (Administrative Law Judge)

An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) is the federal official who presides over Social Security disability hearings after a claim has been denied at the initial and reconsideration levels. The ALJ reviews your file independently, questions you under oath about your conditions, treatment, daily activities, and past work, and may take testimony from vocational and medical witnesses.

Unlike the earlier paper-based stages, the hearing is your first chance to explain your situation in person to the decision-maker. The ALJ issues a written decision that is fully favorable, partially favorable, or unfavorable. Nationwide, a meaningful share of claims denied on paper are approved at the hearing level, which is why preparing thoroughly for this stage matters so much.