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Approval of social security disability appeals: analysis of judges' decisions

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  • Robert Nakosteen
  • Michael Zimmer

Abstract

This article is an empirical analysis of decisions by judges regarding requests by individuals for disability benefits. Applicants for disability benefits who are twice denied through the normal process can appeal to one of the Social Security Administration's administrative law judges, who hold appointed positions. The data for this study are taken from decisions made by approximately 1000 judges for cases heard from 2010 through 2012. Using each judge as a unit of observation, the data reveal the number of cases heard and the number of approvals granted. We augmented the data with additional information on the presiding judge, and with data from the state in which the court resides. The purpose of the study is to determine whether a simple model can explain, first, the volume of decisions rendered at the judge level and, second, the proportion of approvals. Results indicate that the volume of decisions can be explained in part by the judge's recent record of leniency. Evidence also supports the hypothesis that approval outcomes depend on judges' professional tenure and economic factors in the state of jurisdiction.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert Nakosteen & Michael Zimmer, 2014. "Approval of social security disability appeals: analysis of judges' decisions," Applied Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 46(23), pages 2783-2791, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:applec:v:46:y:2014:i:23:p:2783-2791
    DOI: 10.1080/00036846.2014.914147
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Julie L. Hotchkiss, 2003. "The Labor Market Experience of Workers with Disabilities: The ADA and Beyond," Books from Upjohn Press, W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, number lmewd, August.
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