With a 59% allowance rate, the Bronx office approves claims at a rate typical for SSDI hearings, meaning your outcome depends heavily on the quality of your medical record. Because the panel of judges shows a moderate spread in approval rates—ranging from 47% to 82%—your preparation must be robust enough to satisfy any judge. An attorney can help you organize your file to ensure your limitations are clear before you step into the hearing room.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing date.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your 9-month wait is an opportunity to build a comprehensive case file. Start by gathering all updated medical records, including recent diagnostic tests and clinical notes that document your condition since your initial denial. You should also prepare a detailed log of your daily activities and a list of medications, specifically noting any side effects that impact your ability to work. During your hearing, an ALJ will preside while a vocational expert typically testifies about whether jobs exist for someone with your specific limitations. You will have the chance to question this expert. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at the Bronx office consists of 9 judges who demonstrate a moderate spread in their allowance rates. With a median approval rate of 62%, outcomes vary across the group, ranging from 47% to 82%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, making it essential to prepare a case that is strong enough to succeed regardless of who presides over your hearing.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 35 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Many claimants assume the hearing is a simple conversation, but the vocational expert's testimony often carries significant weight regarding your ability to perform work. An attorney who understands the local Bronx panel can pressure-test your evidence against the specific standards these judges apply.
About This Hearing Office
With 1,755 dispositions in the latest reporting period, the Bronx office is a high-volume location; keep these details handy for your hearing day.
Most Favorable Judges
Bronx, NY
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sean P. Walsh | 84% | 71% | 1,305 | |
| 2 | Zachary S. Weiss | 72% | 61% | 12,167 | |
| 3 | Selwyn S. Walters | 68% | 58% | 17,412 | |
| 4 | Alexander G. Levine | 67% | 57% | 14,817 | |
| 5 | Lynn Neugebauer | 66% | 56% | 9,121 | |
| 6 | Brian G. Kanner | 63% | 62% | 19,370 | |
| 7 | Kimberly L. Schiro | 62% | 74% | 16,641 | |
| 8 | Kimberly D. Schulz | 57% | 46% | 2,947 | |
| 9 | Miriam L. Shire | 56% | 48% | 13,372 | |
| 10 | Raymond Prybylski | 53% | 48% | 18,825 | |
| 11 | Benjamin Green | 51% | 43% | 1,072 | |
| 12 | Jeffrey Gardner | 45% | 38% | 1,923 | |
| 13 | Elias Feuer | 45% | 41% | 15,361 | |
| 14 | Angela Banks | 43% | 54% | 14,905 | |
| 15 | John Carlton | 43% | 29% | 15,138 |
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.