What is a VTC hearing?

VTC stands for Video Teleconferencing and it is a different format of conducting the Social Security Disability hearing. If you received a VTC Hearing Notice, it means that the Administrative Law Judge in your case will appear on the television screen on the day of the hearing as opposed to appearing in person. In a VTC hearing, the Administrative Law Judge will physically be in a different location (typically at a National Hearing Center). Even though the Judge is appearing on the screen, everyone in the hearing room including the Judge, you, and your representative will be able to communicate as if the Judge is in the hearing room. There are mixed opinions concerning the advantages and disadvantage of a VTC hearing. While some claimants feel more comfortable with the Judge physically in the hearing room, others have no preference. However, the Social Security Administrative does give the claimants the option to object (disagree with) to a VTC hearing. So, if yo.u feel strongly against having a VTC hearing, it would be best to submit a timely objection