# How do I prepare for an ALJ hearing?

The five-day rule (20 CFR 404.935) is often outcome-determinative — late evidence can be excluded.

**Direct answer:** Prepare for an SSDI ALJ hearing by reviewing the entire electronic file, submitting all updated records at least five business days before the hearing per the SSA's five-day rule, obtaining a treating-source function statement, and rehearsing specific, honest testimony about function on average and bad days.

## The five-day rule

Under 20 CFR 404.935, evidence generally must be submitted at least five business days before the hearing. Late evidence can be excluded absent good cause.

## What to bring

Updated records, treating-source function statements, any specialist opinions, and a written brief tying the case to the specific listing or Grid Rule the case wins under.

## How to testify

Answer specifically — describe the actual limits on sitting, standing, lifting, concentration, and attendance on both average and bad days. Do not exaggerate; credibility loses cases.

## What the ALJ hears

You, your representative, and a Vocational Expert who is asked what work — if any — a person with your RFC could do.

## Sources
- SSA — Hearing Process — https://www.ssa.gov/appeals/hearing_process.html
- SSA — Blue Book (Listing of Impairments) — https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/
- 20 CFR 404.935 — Submitting evidence — https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/cfr20/404/404-0935.htm

## Related questions
- [What happens at an SSDI hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing)
- [What should I not say at an SSDI hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-should-i-not-say-at-an-ssdi-hearing)
- [What is a vocational expert?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-a-vocational-expert)
## Topics
- ALJ Hearing — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals

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