# What is an on-the-record decision?

OTR decisions are addressed in HALLEX and are typically requested by the claimant or representative when the file is strong enough to warrant a fully favorable outcome without testimony.

**Direct answer:** An on-the-record (OTR) decision is a fully favorable SSDI decision an administrative law judge issues without holding a hearing, based entirely on the written record when the evidence clearly supports approval.

## Who requests an OTR?
Typically the claimant or representative submits a written brief showing why the file supports a fully favorable decision under the listings or medical-vocational rules.

## When are OTRs granted?
When the medical evidence, treating-source opinions, and vocational profile clearly support disability under SSA rules.

## What if the ALJ declines an OTR?
The case proceeds to a scheduled hearing, where you can still present testimony and additional evidence.

## Sources
- SSA HALLEX — Overview of the Hearing Process — https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/hallex/hallex.html
- SSA — Hearing Process — https://www.ssa.gov/appeals/hearing_process.html

## Related questions
- [What happens at an SSDI hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing)
- [What is a bench decision?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-a-bench-decision)
- [SSDI Appeals & Reconsideration](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals)
## Topics
- ALJ Hearing — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals

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