With an 8-month wait and a 60% allowance rate, the Hartford office tracks closely with national averages, meaning your outcome depends heavily on the strength of your medical file. Because the panel of judges shows a moderate spread in approval rates, your preparation must be thorough enough to satisfy any judge assigned to your case. An attorney can help you organize your evidence to improve your chances.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
You have 8 months to build a record that clearly documents your limitations. Start by gathering all medical records generated since your initial denial, as these are critical for the Administrative Law Judge to review. You should also prepare a detailed log of your daily activities and a list of medications, including any side effects that impact your ability to work. During your hearing, a Vocational Expert will likely testify about available jobs; you can question them to clarify how your specific health constraints prevent you from performing those roles. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at this office consists of 7 judges who show meaningful variation in their decision-making. With allowance rates ranging from 49% to 79%, the judge assigned to your case will weigh evidence differently. Because cases are assigned randomly, your file must be robust enough to stand on its own merits regardless of which judge presides over your hearing.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. While you wait for your hearing date, you can focus on identifying missing medical evidence and preparing for the specific questions a judge might ask. Claimants who arrive with a well-organized, evidence-backed file are better positioned to navigate the hearing process successfully.
About This Hearing Office
The Hartford office processes over 2,172 cases annually; keep these location details and hours handy as you prepare for your upcoming hearing.
Most Favorable Judges
Hartford, CT
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bruce H. Zwecker | 56% | 48% | 1,130 | |
| 2 | Ryan A. Alger | 56% | 51% | 25,166 | |
| 3 | John Noel | 53% | 68% | 28,158 | |
| 4 | Louis Bonsangue | 52% | 46% | 26,906 | |
| 5 | Edward F. Sweeney | 50% | 48% | 24,708 | |
| 6 | Alexander P. Borre | 45% | 35% | 26,327 | |
| 7 | Michael McKenna | 32% | 27% | 13,746 | |
| 8 | John Aletta | 27% | 23% | 16,811 |
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.