You face a 44% allowance rate at the Colorado Springs office, which is below the typical outcome for many hearing offices. Because the panel of 5 judges shows a wide spread in approval rates—ranging from 22% to 68%—the specific judge assigned to your case significantly impacts your outcome. Using your 9-month wait to thoroughly organize your medical evidence is the most effective way to strengthen your position. An attorney can help you identify gaps in your medical record that a judge might use to deny your claim, ensuring your testimony aligns with the vocational evidence.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your upcoming hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 9-month wait before your hearing, you have a critical window to ensure your medical file is complete. You must submit all updated medical records, including recent test results and notes from specialists, well before the hearing date. During your hearing, an Administrative Law Judge will preside, and a Vocational Expert will often testify regarding your ability to perform work. You should be prepared to discuss your daily limitations, medication side effects, and how your condition prevents you from maintaining full-time employment. Because the judge will rely on the evidence you provide, having a clear, documented history of your impairment is essential. A decision is typically mailed to you several weeks after the hearing concludes.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 5 judges at this office demonstrates a wide spread in allowance rates, with outcomes varying significantly depending on which judge is assigned to your case. Because individual judges weigh evidence differently, your file must be robust enough to withstand rigorous scrutiny regardless of who presides. Judge assignment is random and these statistics are not a guarantee of how your specific hearing will be decided.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When an office has a wide 46-point spread in judge allowance rates, your preparation must account for the most stringent standards on the panel. By pressure-testing your case before you walk into the hearing room, you can avoid common pitfalls that lead to unfavorable decisions.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy as you coordinate your travel and final preparations for your hearing date.
Most Favorable Judges
Colorado Springs, CO
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John A. Beall | 76% | 65% | 1,669 | |
| 2 | Earl W. Shaffer | 69% | 59% | 3,691 | |
| 3 | Ann F. MacMurray | 54% | 46% | 5,214 | |
| 4 | Debra L. Boudreau | 51% | 63% | 25,938 | |
| 5 | Kurt D. Schuman | 46% | 39% | 18,671 | |
| 6 | Kathryn D. Burgchardt | 46% | 39% | 24,189 | |
| 7 | Bryan Henry | 42% | 38% | 24,146 | |
| 8 | Matthew C. Kawalek | 40% | 18% | 29,004 | |
| 9 | William Musseman | 29% | 25% | 18,794 | |
| 10 | Diane S. Davis | 23% | 12% | 21,632 |
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.