Long Beach's 52% allowance rate is typical for a hearing office, meaning your outcome depends on the quality of your medical evidence. With a wait time that has trended downward to 8 months, you have a clear window to organize your records before your date. Because the panel shows moderate variation in how they weigh claims, an attorney can help you prepare your case for the specific standards of this office.
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Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With an 8-month wait, you have a valuable window to strengthen your file before you appear before an ALJ. Your hearing will typically involve you testifying about your limitations while a vocational expert provides testimony on available work. The most critical step is submitting updated medical records that document your condition since your initial denial. Be prepared to discuss your daily-activity log, medication side effects, and any statements from former coworkers. Because evidence-submission deadlines are strict, you must ensure your file is complete well before the hearing date. Decisions are rarely issued on the spot; you will receive a written notice by mail after the proceeding.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at Long Beach consists of 8 judges with a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 31% to 67%. While the median rate of 56% provides a baseline, the variation across the panel means that which judge you draw can influence the outcome of your case. Each judge weighs evidence differently, so your file must be robust enough to stand on its own regardless of who presides.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span over 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. Many claimants spend their 8-month wait time simply waiting, but a qualified representative uses that period to pressure-test your evidence against the standards used by this office. Represented claimants are better prepared to address the vocational expert's testimony and navigate the hearing process.
About This Hearing Office
Here is the essential information for the Federal Building in Long Beach, including the address and hours for your upcoming hearing.
Most Favorable Judges
Long Beach, CA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | E. M. Koldewey | 76% | 65% | 4,335 | |
| 2 | John C. Tobin | 72% | 61% | 12,394 | |
| 3 | Peggy M. Zirlin | 72% | 61% | 4,186 | |
| 4 | Jean R. Kerins | 70% | 60% | 4,723 | |
| 5 | Marc A. Yerkey | 68% | 63% | 5,782 | |
| 6 | Robert A. Evans | 67% | 57% | 4,425 | |
| 7 | Edward C. Graham | 61% | 52% | 17,059 | |
| 8 | Susanne Lewald | 60% | 51% | 2,627 | |
| 9 | Cynthia Floyd | 55% | 55% | 24,759 | |
| 10 | Joseph Marcee | 52% | 51% | 3,001 | |
| 11 | Diana J. Coburn | 32% | 19% | 22,547 |
Your odds change dramatically with a lawyer
SSDI hearing approval rates — with a lawyer vs. on your own
Source: U.S. Government Accountability Office, GAO-18-37 — analysis of SSA ALJ adult disability decisions, FY 2007–2015. Applicants with a lawyer got approved at a rate nearly three times higher than those without. Individual case outcomes vary based on medical evidence, the specific judge, and quality of representation. Checking whether you qualify for a free benefits review takes 2 minutes.
Wait Time Trend
Average months from hearing request to decision — last 16 months
Nearest SSA Field Offices
Where to apply or check on your claim in person
Frequently Asked Questions
About This Content
Statistics come from SSA's Office of Hearings Operations reports and publicly available judge decision data. Approval rates count both full and partial approvals. Wait times reflect the average from hearing request to decision.