I-2-8-5.Effect of an Administrative Law Judge's Decision - Administrative Finality

Last Update: 3/9/15 (Transmittal I-2-136)

As set forth in 20 CFR 404.955 and 416.1455, an administrative law judge's (ALJ) decision is final and binding on all parties to a hearing unless:

NOTE:

Prior to issuing a decision, hearing office staff must not inform a claimant or representative, either verbally or in writing, that an ALJ intends to issue a favorable or unfavorable decision. The decision of the ALJ is not final until the ALJ has signed the decision, and he or she may change the decision prior to signing it.