So, this is a new ALJ?

Do you have any documentation that your function has not decreased since your initial application? That will likely be the sticking point, you may now qualify based on the CE exam, but are you entitled to benefits going back to your original Alleged Onset Date?

If you're willing to take less backpay, you might be able to have your attorney negotiate an On the Record decision... Of course there is also the possibility the ALJ will give you a Fully Favorable On the Record decision, but you should have the dates worked out ahead of time if you're willing to "settle" (it's inappropriate terminology in this context but nonetheless, that is what it is).

Right now as we speak my attorney is getting up to date information from my physchiatrist who I see often, they just got the results of CE exam today, not quite sure what the game plan is. Oddly enough, I called the 800 number for social security a few days ago, and the representative I talked to, just to get update was shocked this case has gone on so long. We already amended onset date from 2006 to 2009. The ball is in their court.

Those employees at the 800 # are not as informed or as well trained as those at the local offices. I'm not sure they even have access to the same software systems.

At this stage of your case I would not recommend contacting anyone at the 800 #. Your attorney's office should be handling all your questions at this point...but if you must contact SS directly, call the local office or the hearing office.

For example, I was told by two different employees at the 800 # that I had received a FF decision, six months apart and that I'd be receiving my benefits and backup at anytime. Unfortunately, they just didn't know how to read my earlier Partially Favorable Decision.

I have Binder and Binder, they hate answering questions, I feel like another brick in the wall, that's why I hope this is it, we can all ride off into the sunset.

Perhaps you should REMIND them that they are working for YOU, not the other way around.

Put everything in writing, and preferably in a trackable form like email or fax, or if you really want to make a point, by certified mail.

I feel like I'm in a bad marriage with them, hopefully when I hear those sweet words, favorable or even partial favorable decision, I can have this marriage annulled. Thanks for all your help.

That was cute. Hope you can get your "annulment" soon.

Have you ever seen your file? If not, get a copy of it and read it, every page of it. You will be able to see why you have been denied and knowing that gives you a chance to know what you are up against and how to fight it.

I haven't given up, so far I haven't kicked the bucket, that's what they hope you'll do. They didn't think the appeals council would grant a second remand. Now with this new CE exam, they have no more excuses, that's why a judge with a 66% approval rating is looking at it, the stick in the MUDs can walk away knowing they didn't approve me.