Fee Structure for Social Security Lawyers

Contingency Fees: No Upfront Costs

Most Social Security lawyers charge a contingency fee, which means they are paid a percentage of the backpay (also called retroactive benefits) you receive if your claim is successful. This is beneficial because it allows you to get legal assistance without paying any upfront costs. The lawyer’s fee is contingent upon winning your case.

What Percentage Does a Social Security Lawyer Charge?

The standard contingency fee for a Social Security Disability lawyer is typically 25% of your backpay, up to a maximum fee of $6,000 (for cases in which the total backpay is higher than that amount). Here’s a breakdown of how this works:

• 25% of Backpay: If your backpay (retroactive benefits) is $10,000, your lawyer would receive $2,500 as their fee.
• $6,000 Maximum: If your backpay exceeds $24,000, the lawyer’s fee would still be capped at $6,000, no matter how high your backpay is.

No Fees for Denied Claims

If your case is denied and you do not receive any backpay or benefits, your Social Security Disability attorney does not get paid. This gives you peace of mind knowing that the lawyer’s fee is contingent on your success.

How Does the Fee Structure Work?

Once your Social Security Disability claim is approved, the SSA will pay your backpay directly to you. Your lawyer will then receive their fee directly from the SSA. The SSA is responsible for withholding the attorney's fee from your retroactive payment.

Additional Costs You May Encounter

While Social Security Disability lawyers typically only charge a contingency fee, there could be some additional costs or expenses associated with your case. These are usually minor and may include:

• Medical Records: The cost of obtaining copies of your medical records, tests, and evaluations.
• Expert Testimony: In some cases, an attorney may hire medical experts or vocational experts to testify on your behalf, and these experts may charge a fee.
• Court Filing Fees: Although this is rare, there may be minor court-related fees in certain cases.

Before hiring an attorney, always make sure to ask about any potential extra costs to avoid any surprises down the road.

How to Find a Lawyer That Fits Your Budget

If you’re concerned about the cost of a Social Security lawyer, there are several ways to find one that fits your budget:

• Consultation Fees: Many lawyers offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case and get a feel for how they operate before making a decision.
• No Win, No Fee: Look for a lawyer who works on a contingency fee basis, as this minimizes your upfront financial risk.
• Legal Aid: In some cases, you may qualify for free legal services through organizations that provide support for individuals with limited income.