Columbus maintains a 57% allowance rate, which is typical for SSDI hearing offices. Because your outcome depends on the strength of your medical evidence, your preparation is the most important factor in your success. An attorney can help you organize your records to ensure your file is ready for the ALJ.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With an 8-month wait time that has fluctuated slightly, you have a window to ensure your file is complete. You must submit all updated medical records, a list of medications with side effects, and a log of your daily activities well before the hearing. The hearing typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, where an ALJ presides and a vocational expert often testifies regarding available work. You have the opportunity to question the expert, which is often the turning point in your case. Since the decision arrives by mail weeks later, thorough preparation is your best defense against a denial.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 12 judges at this office shows a moderate spread in allowance rates, ranging from 44% to 74% with a median of 58%. This means there is meaningful variation in how individual judges weigh evidence. Because cases are assigned randomly, your file must be robust enough to stand up to the scrutiny of any judge on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it due to weak documentation. You are more likely to be allowed when you are represented, as you can avoid common pitfalls with vocational testimony. A review of your evidence can help you determine if your file meets the standard required at this office.
About This Hearing Office
With 3,260 dispositions in the latest reporting period, this office is a high-volume site. Keep these details handy for the day of your hearing.
Most Favorable Judges
Columbus, OH
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John L. Shailer | 81% | 69% | 2,822 | |
| 2 | Irma J. Flottman | 68% | 64% | 26,579 | |
| 3 | Kimberly S. Cromer | 64% | 57% | 30,479 | |
| 4 | Matthew Winfrey | 63% | 61% | 22,387 | |
| 5 | Patrick M. Horan | 62% | 56% | 4,060 | |
| 6 | Edmund E. Giorgione | 54% | 46% | 2,049 | |
| 7 | K. Michael Foley | 54% | 46% | 830 | |
| 8 | John R. Montgomery | 51% | 43% | 756 | |
| 9 | Jeannine Lesperance | 50% | 45% | 23,679 | |
| 10 | Jeffrey Hartranft | 49% | 57% | 25,807 | |
| 11 | Thomas L. Wang | 49% | 41% | 21,081 | |
| 12 | Jason P. Tepley | 47% | 36% | 6,742 | |
| 13 | Paul E. Yerian | 46% | 51% | 8,185 | |
| 14 | Jason C. Earnhart | 45% | 38% | 9,936 | |
| 15 | Timothy G. Keller | 42% | 36% | 16,650 | |
| 16 | Deborah F. Sanders | 41% | 45% | 15,864 | |
| 17 | Timothy Gates | 39% | 33% | 9,729 | |
| 18 | Rita S. Eppler | 36% | 31% | 1,963 |
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.