A Social Security Disability Hearing is also called the "ALJ hearing." The hearing is part of the appeal process arising from a benefits denial letter. The appeal at this level is processed by a Hearing Office within SSA's Office of Hearing and Appeals. This office is called Office of Adjudication and Review or ODAR. An Administrative Law Judge makes this appeal decision usually after conducting a hearing and receiving any additional evidence such as additional medical evidence from a witnesses such the treating physicians and the disability examiner.