Social Security benefits are an amazing resource for those whose disabilities prevent them from working. Unfortunately, some disability claims are denied upon first or second submission, leaving some applicants feeling disheartened. However, for those who choose to appeal their decision, hearings can be scheduled in front of a judge in an attempt to still receive benefits.
Formerly the Social Security Hearings Office, the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (also known as ODAR) is a building where disability hearings take place. There are 160 hearing offices nationwide with over 1,500 administrative law judges (ALJs) ready to take on appeals. But which offices are most likely to approve those appeals?
Continue below to see the top five ODARs with the highest appeal approval ratings in the country.
#5 - Albuquerque, NM
As of the 2016 Social Security census, Albuquerque, New Mexico is considered the 5th most-likely place to award disability benefits in a hearing.
Aside from 71.66% of all hearings resulting in approved claims, Albuquerque is a very supportive community for those with disabilities. From Disability Services New Mexico to NMTAP, LifeROOTS, and the Aging & Disability Resource Center, New Mexico has multiple support options for every member of the disabled community, especially in the heart of Albuquerque.
#4 - San Juan, PR
With an approval rating of 71.69%, San Juan, Puerto Rico has the 4th highest claim approval of all Social Security hearing offices.
Because of its hilly terrain and cobblestone streets, many people with mobility issues can have trouble getting around San Juan. However, as construction for disabled citizens improves, San Juan provides multiple organizations along with its high SS approval rating to help all people live as comfortably as possible in the city.
#3 - Jericho, NY
The state of New York has one of the highest Social Security approval ratings in the country. However, Jericho leads every other city in New York, with an approval rating of 72.68%.
Aside from its high hearing approval, Jericho and its surrounding areas provide access to over 15 nonprofits designed for disabled citizens of all ages, origins, and diagnoses.
#2 - Honolulu, HI
The state of Hawaii has the highest percentage of people on disability insurance of any place in the United States. With 3/4 of all disability hearings resulting in awarded benefits, Honolulu provides its disabled residents with medical and financial security.
It also houses the headquarters of over 20 disability rights and resource centers, from ADRC Hawaii to the Kukui Center to the Hawaii Autism Foundation.
#1 - South Jersey, NJ
Coming in at #1, South Jersey, NJ approves an overwhelming 76.39% of all cases that receive disability hearings. With over 50 disability nonprofits in lower Jersey alone, disabled residents have many options to explore if they find themselves unable to work or live normally.
New Jersey’s Temporary Disability Insurance Benefits are also some of the most widely-awarded state-wide disability benefits in the country.
Contacting a Social Security Attorney
If you feel you may qualify for disability benefits, consider speaking with a disability attorney. Attorneys are an irreplaceable resource when it comes to understanding what qualifies as a disability, figuring out your chances of being approved, and walking you through each step of the process. To give yourself the best chance at receiving the assistance you deserve, speak with a disability attorney today.
