The Eugene office maintains a 64% allowance rate, which is typical for the hearing stage. Because your outcome depends on the quality of the medical evidence you present, you should use the current 8-month wait to ensure your file is complete. An attorney can help you organize your records and prepare for your hearing.
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, you have a clear runway to ensure your medical file is airtight before your hearing date. Your preparation should focus on updating your records with any new treatment notes, hospitalizations, or changes in medication side effects since your initial denial. During the hearing, you will answer questions from the ALJ and a vocational expert. This expert will testify about whether jobs exist that fit your specific physical or mental limitations. You have the right to question their testimony, which is why having a detailed log of your daily activity limitations is vital. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are often restricted. Your final decision will arrive by mail after the proceedings conclude.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 7 judges at this office shows a moderate spread in allowance rates, ranging from 52% to 75%. Because there is meaningful variation across the panel, the judge assigned to your case may weigh evidence differently than the office median of 67%.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span over 20 points, your file must be robust enough to withstand scrutiny regardless of which judge presides. An attorney familiar with the Eugene panel knows how to anticipate the vocational expert's testimony and ensure your medical records directly address the criteria the SSA uses to determine disability. By pressure-testing your file now, you reduce the risk of surprises on the day of your hearing.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for your hearing day at the Eugene office, located at Suite 201, 211 E. 7th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97401.
Most Favorable Judges
Eugene, OR
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moira Ausems | 81% | 69% | 17,649 | |
| 2 | B. Hobbs | 66% | 67% | 26,419 | |
| 3 | Ted W. Neiswanger | 61% | 52% | 6,829 | |
| 4 | John D. Sullivan | 59% | 60% | 29,839 | |
| 5 | Katherine Weatherly | 57% | 55% | 27,848 | |
| 6 | Robert F. Spaulding | 56% | 48% | 13,774 | |
| 7 | Steven A. De Monbreum | 49% | 42% | 16,307 | |
| 8 | Jason W. Crowell | 44% | 44% | 27,853 | |
| 9 | Alex S. Karlin | 32% | 27% | 881 |
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.