NOSSCR has developed what it calls a “Hearing Format Election Statement,” which is an excellent one-page, fillable form that contains all four types of hearing modalities (in-person, VTC, telephone, and online video) and allows for a simple way to notify the hearing office of how the claimant wants to appear at their hearing.

Using NOSSCR’s form, this information can be communicated to the hearing office on a single, straightforward form, which cannot be accomplished using SSA’s forms (the HA-55 and the COVID-19 Remote Hearing Agreement Form).

I have already started to use this form. You should too.