Typical Fee Structure for Disability Lawyers

Most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case and receive benefits. The fee is typically a percentage of the benefits you are awarded. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has set strict rules on how much a lawyer can charge for Social Security Disability cases:

• Fee Percentage
  The standard fee for a disability lawyer is 25% of the past-due benefits you are awarded, up to a maximum of $6,000. Past-due benefits refer to the back payments you are entitled to receive from the SSA once your claim is approved. This fee is only applicable if you win your case, and you don’t have to pay the lawyer if your claim is denied.

• Maximum Fee
  The SSA limits how much a lawyer can charge for disability cases to ensure the fees are fair and manageable for claimants. The maximum fee of $6,000 applies even if 25% of your past-due benefits would exceed that amount. For example, if your past-due benefits amount to $40,000, the lawyer would still only receive $6,000, not $10,000.

• No Upfront Fees
  Reputable disability lawyers do not charge any upfront fees. The fee is taken from your back payments once your case is approved, so you don’t need to worry about paying the lawyer before receiving your benefits. If your claim is unsuccessful, you typically do not owe the lawyer any fees at all.

Additional Costs or Expenses

While most disability lawyers charge based on a contingency fee, there may be additional costs or expenses associated with your case. These are generally separate from the lawyer’s fee and can include:

• Medical Records
  Obtaining medical records to support your disability claim is essential, and some doctors or hospitals may charge for copies of your records. The cost of gathering medical evidence is usually the responsibility of the claimant, but some lawyers may advance these costs and deduct them from your final award if you win your case.

• Expert Witness Fees
  In some cases, your lawyer may need to hire an expert witness, such as a medical professional or vocational expert, to testify on your behalf. These experts can charge significant fees, and the cost is usually added to your case expenses.

• Administrative Costs
  There may be small administrative costs, such as copying fees, postage, or filing fees. These costs are typically minimal but should be considered when evaluating the total cost of hiring a disability lawyer.

When to Hire a Disability Lawyer

While hiring a lawyer is not mandatory for a disability claim, it can be beneficial. Many people find the process overwhelming, and a lawyer can help ensure that your case is properly prepared, complete, and has the best chance of success. Here are some scenarios when you may want to consider hiring a disability lawyer:

• If Your Claim Is Denied
  The majority of Social Security Disability claims are denied at the initial application stage. If your claim is denied, a lawyer can help you file an appeal and represent you during hearings. They can also assist in gathering new medical evidence to strengthen your case.

• If You Have a Complex Case
  If your medical condition is complicated or if you have multiple conditions that make your claim difficult, a lawyer can provide the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the SSA’s process.

• If You’re Having Trouble with Paperwork
  The application process for Social Security Disability can involve a lot of paperwork and detailed information. A lawyer can help you understand the forms, gather the necessary evidence, and ensure that everything is submitted correctly.