Alexandria, LASSA Hearing Office

The seven judges at this office show a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 40% to 73%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs evidence differently. This variation means your preparation must be robust enough to satisfy the requirements of any judge on the panel.

At Alexandria, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 8 months— versus a national average of 8 months. Here's how it's tracked month by month over the past 16 months.

Your hearing will involve an ALJ reviewing your file and hearing testimony. Because this office has a moderate spread in judge allowance rates, your file must be self-sufficient and clearly documented. Bring updated medical records from the period following your denial, a detailed list of medications with side effects, and a log of your daily activities. A vocational expert will likely testify about whether jobs exist that fit your specific physical or mental limitations. You have the right to question this expert to clarify how your impairments prevent you from working. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.

When a panel's allowance rates span over 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. While you wait for your hearing date, you can identify the specific medical evidence needed to bridge the gap between your current record and the requirements of the Social Security Administration. Focusing on your medical documentation now helps ensure your case is ready for any judge.

If your hearing is at Alexandria, your case originated at one of the SSA field offices below — the local intake counter where you (or a representative) filed the initial application. Field offices don't decide hearings, but they hold your file, issue benefit-payment notices, and field the day-to-day questions during your wait.