The Disability Academy provides comprehensive and detailed real-world training for disability representatives.
The Disability Academy provides step-by-step guidance through every stage of the disability representation process. It is the ideal starting point to help new representatives become confident, capable, and successful advocates, and offers seasoned representatives advanced skills training and hard-won insider knowledge.
Developed by Leanne Hernandez, President of Disability Advocates and highly respected Social Security adjudicator and representative, this content is authored by expert Social Security disability representatives and peer-reviewed by EDPNAs and other successful disability professionals.
Two comprehensive webinars and two live monthly training programs are available through the National Association of Disability Representatives to equip representatives for success in this rewarding but challenging profession.
“Leanne Hernandez is an extremely skilled, highly proficient and knowledgeable disability representative. She knows the rules probably better than anyone I know. Ms. Hernandez has helped me become a better advocate ten-fold by sharing her knowledge and techniques for hearings.”
Thomas D. Doyle
Attorney
Chelmsford, Massachusetts
Course
Initial and Reconsideration Representation Training
A foundational, comprehensive online course for new representatives and case managers to master the early stages of the disability claim process. Quickly elevate skills needed to build solid cases from the beginning.
This course covers:
- SSA disability definitions and benefit types
- Case screening, filing, and management
- Completing DDS forms, CEs, and grid rule analysis
- Problem-solving, payment issues, and legal principles
- Quizzes, templates, and sample forms
Course
Complete Hearings Training
A comprehensive, mobile-friendly, searchable course designed to teach representatives how to effectively handle hearings from start to finish.
This course covers:
- 7+ hours of video instruction
- Mock hearings (in-person, phone, video)
- Quizzes, templates, sample briefs, and forms
- Quarterly Q&A sessions with Leanne
- Participant chat and ongoing success tips
- Teaches best practices in case development, vocational evidence, legal principles, and hearing strategy
Now Includes New Special Module:
SSR 24-3p - Blueprint for Success
- A new, in-depth course explaining recent SSA policy changes. Teaches practical, tactical strategies for cross-examining vocational experts and using SSR 24-3p to strengthen cases.
Live Monthly Training Programs
Case of the Month Club
Real case studies and group discussions led by Leanne Hernandez
View Case of the Month ClubVE Crossfire: Tactical Training
Advanced, live training in cross-examination of Vocational Experts
View Tactical Training Program