Your exhibit file is an internal name used by Social Security to describe your case file. Your file will also be presented with an exhibit list, which is a list of each item in the file. The information in your file will include all of your applications, any appeals you have filed as well as any medical records relevant to your case. The file will also contain information from Disability Determination Services (DDS) office about the extent of your disability.
An exhibit file is maintained in order to be able to process your claim efficiently. Having the file also gives your disability attorney and the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) the same set of information to work from as they process your case. Each item in your file will be given a reference number so that adjudicators can work through your case quickly.
The file is compiled by the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). Both you and the Social Security Administration (SSA) have the right to view and add information to the file when necessary. If your disability claim has been denied, then you should go in person to ODAR handling your case and request a copy of your file. It is important to request a copy of your exhibit file as soon as possible, in order to give your disability lawyer ample time to make a case on your behalf. A qualified attorney can make sure that all the necessary information is on file with the SSA.
