Philadelphia East's 57% allowance rate is typical for a hearing office, meaning your outcome depends on the quality of your medical record. With a steady 8-month wait, you have a predictable runway to ensure your file is complete. An attorney can help you evaluate your evidence and prepare for the vocational expert's testimony before you step into the hearing room.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With an 8-month wait, you have time to build a robust file that addresses the specific limitations identified by your doctors. Your hearing will involve an ALJ reviewing your testimony and the findings of a Vocational Expert. This expert will testify on whether jobs exist that fit your residual functional capacity, and you or your attorney will have the opportunity to question their conclusions. Ensure you bring updated medical records, a detailed list of medications and their side effects, and a log of your daily activities. Because evidence submission deadlines are strict, you must finalize your documentation well before the hearing date.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at this office shows a moderate spread, with allowance rates for active judges ranging from 51% to 72%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs evidence through their own lens. This variation makes it essential to prepare a file that is strong enough to stand up to any judge on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span over 20 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Many claimants spend their 8-month wait simply hoping for a favorable outcome, while represented claimants use that time to proactively address gaps in their medical history. An attorney who understands the nuances of the Philadelphia East panel can help you build a case that anticipates the questions you will face under oath.
About This Hearing Office
With 1,355 dispositions in the latest reporting period, this office manages a significant volume of cases. Keep these location and contact details handy as you finalize your hearing preparations.
Most Favorable Judges
Philadelphia, PA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stephen Bosch | 71% | 60% | 10,298 | |
| 2 | Sandra H. Morales-Rosa | 69% | 59% | 6,117 | |
| 3 | Howard Wishnoff | 61% | 65% | 22,748 | |
| 4 | Michele Lazzaro | 56% | 44% | 5,194 | |
| 5 | Susannah Merritt | 49% | 42% | 17,468 | |
| 6 | Bettye L. Rutledge | 49% | 42% | 7,403 | |
| 7 | Nycole Watson | 43% | 30% | 21,532 | |
| 8 | Charlie M. Johnson | 40% | 34% | 16,145 |
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.