In your opinion a hearing is not needed, but that may not be an ALJ's opinion.

OTR's are very rarely granted. They must be Fully Favorable decisions--in other words, if the ALJ thinks you should qualify but feels a later Established Onset Date is appropriate (such as when you turned 55) he can't approve your OTR.

They're also usually only granted for those that qualify by meeting a Listed Impairment. Unless you have new medical documentation that proves you met the requirements for an Impaired Listing going back to your Alleged Onset Date, then you will most likely have to go through yet another ALJ hearing.

If the AC felt a hearing was not needed, they also could have granted you a Fully Favorable decision.

IMO, having a chance for a new ALJ hearing, before a new ALJ, is an excellent opportunity.