Where practicable, a request for hearing on SVB, SSI and/or RSDHI claims involving
one or more of the same issues may be heard at one hearing. If a claim for SVB, SSI,
and/or RSDHI is pending at any level of development and involves the same issues(s),
the ALJ may escalate the other claim(s) and resolve all claims at a consolidated hearing.
If, when forwarding a claim for a hearing or later, you become aware of a pending
hearing request on an claim under another title which appears to involve the same
issue(s), notify ODAR so that the ALJ can consider consolidating the claims. In these
cases, SSA will reimburse expenses for travel within the U.S. for an individual, his
or her representative, and any witnesses the ALJ deems necessary for the proceedings,
consistent with the provisions of title II and title XVI.