What Should I Wear to my Social Security Disability Appeal Hearing?

Today we will be sticking with our recent theme-- Social Security Disability appeal hearings. Today's question is: How should I dress for my disability appeal hearing? Although this may not be a claimant’s first concern, it is definitely something that should be considered carefully. In this blog post we will talk about the importance of your appearance at a disability hearing and will provide you with some helpful hints to dress for success.

How should I dress at my disability appeal hearing?

Choosing how to dress for your Social Security Disability appeal hearing may seem like a minor decision, especially when compared to the stress you may be feeling about the entire application process. However, deciding what to wear is an important consideration. When handled improperly, your appearance may negatively impact your disability claim.

The disability appeal hearing is a vital part of the disability benefit appeals processes. The hearing provides claimants with a chance to appear before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to answer questions about their claim. Your hearing is a legal proceeding in which you appear before a judge. Like any other hearing, your judge will expect you to dress in a way that shows a certain level of respect for the proceedings.

At the same time, however, the purpose of your hearing is to persuade the judge that you have a disability severe enough to prevent you from working. Because of this, overdressing can work against you. When selecting an outfit, choose something that might be considered business casual. Your outfit should be plain and conservative but not too fancy.

It is also important that you don’t try to exaggerate your disability in any way. For example, if you don’t require a wheelchair on a typical day, do not use one at your hearing. An Administrative Law Judges handles disability hearings each and every day. He or she will be able to tell if you are exaggerating or playing up your disability. This will ultimately hurt your chances of success. Only use assistive devices, braces, or medical equipment that you truly need.

Below we have compiled a list of helpful suggestions that you should take into account when dressing for your appeal hearing:

• Make sure your clothes are clean and presentable. Try to select items that don’t have obvious stains or holes.
• Select items that fit conservatively. Overly revealing clothing will distract from your claim and may give the judge the impression that you aren’t taking your hearing seriously.
• Choose something you feel comfortable in. If you are uncomfortable in your clothing you will be focused on your discomfort rather than answering the judge’s questions.
• Do not overdress. Wearing a suit or formal dress may give off the impression that you are healthier or better off than you truly are.
• Avoid wearing heavy makeup, jewelry, or nail polish. Do your best to wear clothing that conceals any tattoos you may have.
• Your clothing should not be distracting in any way. The focus should be on your need for assistance—not your outfit.
• Don’t go out of your way to hide or exaggerate your disability. Provide an accurate representation of yourself.

What tips do you have about dressing for an appeal hearing? Leave your questions and comments below!

Additional Resources

• What Eye Problems Qualify for Disability?
• Can I Represent Myself At A Disability Hearing?