Omaha's hearing wait of 7 months is one month faster than the national average. With an office-wide allowance rate of 51%, your outcome often hinges on the quality of your medical evidence. Because the panel of judges shows a wide spread in approval rates, proactive file preparation is essential to ensure your evidence is ready for any ALJ. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 7-month wait, you have a defined runway to ensure your medical records are complete before your hearing date. You should focus on gathering updated clinical notes, a detailed medication list including side effects, and a log of your daily activities that illustrates your functional limitations. The hearing typically involves an ALJ and a vocational expert who will testify regarding your ability to perform specific jobs. Because the judges at this office show a wide range in their allowance rates, your file must be robust enough to stand on its own regardless of which judge is assigned. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted. A clear, well-documented record is your best tool for success.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 6 judges at this office demonstrates a wide spread in outcomes, with individual allowance rates ranging from 28% to 74%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each ALJ weighs evidence differently. This variation means your preparation must be thorough enough to address the specific concerns of any judge on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 46 points, your file has to be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Focusing on the consistency of your medical records and the clarity of your functional limitations helps you build a case that remains persuasive regardless of the assigned judge.
About This Hearing Office
Here are the location details and operational hours for the Omaha hearing office to help you plan for your upcoming appearance.
Most Favorable Judges
Omaha, NE
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Emily Cameron Shattil | 84% | 71% | 2,722 | |
| 2 | G. Roderic Anderson | 79% | 67% | 4,215 | |
| 3 | David J. DeLaittre | 78% | 67% | 22,020 | |
| 4 | Ronald D. Lahners | 70% | 60% | 14,650 | |
| 5 | Matthew Bring | 57% | 38% | 16,766 | |
| 6 | David G. Buell | 51% | 52% | 29,000 | |
| 7 | Marc Mates | 50% | 43% | 12,334 | |
| 8 | Jan E. Dutton | 45% | 39% | 31,674 | |
| 9 | Matthew C. Dawson | 42% | 43% | 16,284 | |
| 10 | Kelly Humphrey | 41% | 35% | 11,347 | |
| 11 | Chris Yokus | 30% | 21% | 19,826 |
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.