What is the difference between a hearing and a review?
The Social Security Administration offers two main processes for determining disability benefits in California: a hearing and a review. A hearing is essentially a judicial process in which a judge will review evidence and testimony to decide whether or not an individual meets the definition of disability as defined by the Social Security Administration. A review, on the other hand, is a simpler process that is conducted by Social Security Administration employees rather than a judge. In a review, evidence is submitted and evaluated to decide whether or not an individual is eligible for disability benefits. The primary difference between a hearing and a review is that a hearing involves a judge and a review does not. The judge in a hearing can hear testimony from the applicant and consider additional evidence, whereas a review requires the applicant to provide evidence to support their disability claim. The judge also makes a formal decision in a hearing, whereas a review decision is based on a lower standard of proof. It is ultimately up to the individual to decide which process to pursue. If a person disagrees with the decision made by the Social Security Administration employee in a review, he or she may opt for a hearing for a more thorough review of their case.
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