With a 71% allowance rate, New York Varick approves more claims than the national average. While the 9-month wait is slightly longer than the 8-month national benchmark, it provides a window to organize your medical evidence. Because the panel of judges shows a moderate spread in approval rates, your success depends on presenting a file that anticipates the specific questions an ALJ will ask. 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 9-month wait, you have a steady runway to strengthen your file before your hearing date. You should prioritize updating your medical records to include any treatments or hospitalizations that occurred after your initial denial. Your hearing will involve an ALJ and likely a vocational expert who will testify about your ability to perform specific jobs. You must submit all new evidence well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted. Bring a clear list of your medications, their side effects, and a log of your daily activities to help the judge understand your limitations. A well-documented file is the most effective tool for navigating this office's high-allowance environment.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at New York Varick consists of 6 judges with a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 49% to 80%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs evidence differently. While the median allowance rate of 75% is high, this is not a guarantee for your specific claim. Your preparation must be robust enough to satisfy the requirements of any judge on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Even at an office with a 71% allowance rate, cases often fail if the record does not clearly address the vocational expert's testimony. Building a precise, evidence-backed narrative ensures your case stands on its own regardless of which judge is assigned to your hearing.
About This Hearing Office
With 1,446 total dispositions in the latest period, this office manages a high volume of claims. Keep these details accessible as you prepare for your hearing date.
Most Favorable Judges
New York, NY
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sharif F. Nesheiwat | 83% | 71% | 1,987 | |
| 2 | Thomas C. Gray | 78% | 72% | 21,744 | |
| 3 | Edward H. Hein | 78% | 66% | 8,475 | |
| 4 | M. Reeves | 74% | 63% | 13,043 | |
| 5 | Jason A. Miller | 66% | 68% | 27,287 | |
| 6 | Janet McEneaney | 64% | 54% | 12,773 | |
| 7 | Sommattie Ramrup | 63% | 100% | 10,956 | |
| 8 | Latanya White Richards | 60% | 55% | 19,443 | |
| 9 | Aaron M. Morgan | 43% | 46% | 2,359 |
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.