Des Moines currently processes hearings in 7 months, moving 1 month faster than the national average. While the office-wide allowance rate of 55% is standard, the panel features a wide spread in judge outcomes. Because your specific ALJ assignment impacts your odds, building a robust, evidence-backed file is the most effective way to prepare for your day in court. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your hearing in Des Moines is a formal proceeding where you testify under oath before an Administrative Law Judge. With a 7-month wait, you have a runway to ensure your medical records are complete and up to date. You must submit any new evidence well before the hearing date, as late filings are often restricted. During the session, a Vocational Expert will likely testify regarding your ability to perform work in the national economy. You should be prepared to discuss your daily limitations, medication side effects, and any work history that supports your claim. Because the panel here shows a wide range of allowance rates, your file must be strong enough to stand on its own regardless of which judge is assigned to your case.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at this office consists of 9 judges whose allowance rates vary, ranging from 34% to 80%. This spread means that which judge you draw can have an impact on your hearing outcome. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, making it essential to prepare a case that addresses the evidentiary standards of the entire panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 46 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. An attorney who understands the local panel can help you identify the specific medical evidence needed to bridge the gap between your current record and the requirements of the Social Security Administration. This preparation ensures your testimony aligns with the vocational evidence required for a favorable decision.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these office details handy for your hearing day, including the location at the Capitol Center 3 and the contact information for the hearing office staff.
Most Favorable Judges
Des Moines, IA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Andrews | 70% | 69% | 25,286 | |
| 2 | John E. Sandbothe | 68% | 56% | 22,043 | |
| 3 | John Priester | 68% | 43% | 19,039 | |
| 4 | Henry Hamilton | 68% | 62% | 27,510 | |
| 5 | Matthew J. Gordon | 63% | 57% | 24,840 | |
| 6 | Julie K. Bruntz | 53% | 45% | 11,944 | |
| 7 | John P. Mills III | 50% | 39% | 20,328 | |
| 8 | Michael L. Larner | 48% | 48% | 22,107 | |
| 9 | Kim A. Fields | 38% | 22% | 29,127 | |
| 10 | Erin T. Schmidt | 37% | 25% | 18,332 |
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.