Social Security Lawyer Fees: How They Work

Contingency Fee Basis

Most Social Security lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. This can be helpful if you’re unable to afford upfront legal costs. The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the back pay you receive if your claim is approved.

Typical Contingency Fee Percentage

The Social Security Administration (SSA) regulates the amount a lawyer can charge for their services. Typically, the fee is 25% of your back pay, but there’s a cap to prevent excessive fees. The maximum fee that a Social Security lawyer can charge is $6,000.

• Example: If you’re awarded $24,000 in back pay, the lawyer’s fee would be 25% of that, which equals $6,000 (the maximum allowed). If your back pay award is higher, the lawyer’s fee will remain capped at $6,000.

No Fee If You Don’t Win

If your case is not successful and you don’t receive back pay or ongoing benefits, you typically won’t have to pay your lawyer. This is one of the advantages of working with a Social Security lawyer on a contingency basis—they only get paid if you win your case.

Other Costs You Might Incur

While the lawyer’s fee is usually taken from your back pay, there may be other costs you incur during the process. These could include:

• Medical Records Fees: Some doctors charge for providing your medical records.
• Expert Witness Fees: In complex cases, you may need to hire a medical or vocational expert, which could involve additional costs.
• Court Fees: If your case goes to court, there may be minimal court fees or administrative costs.
• However, most lawyers will discuss any potential additional costs with you upfront.

No Upfront Fees

Most Social Security Disability lawyers do not charge any upfront fees. This is a major benefit of hiring a lawyer on a contingency basis—you won’t need to worry about paying legal fees out of pocket before your case is decided. This makes it easier for individuals with limited financial resources to afford legal representation.

Benefits of Hiring a Social Security Lawyer

While you can apply for Social Security Disability benefits on your own, hiring a lawyer can improve your chances of success. Here are some reasons why many individuals choose to hire a lawyer:

• Increased Chances of Approval: Social Security Disability claims can be complex, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can help ensure your application is complete, accurate, and compelling. Lawyers understand how to gather and present medical evidence and know what the SSA looks for in a successful claim.
• Help with the Appeals Process: If your claim is denied, a lawyer can guide you through the appeals process. They will represent you in hearings, help you gather additional evidence, and advocate for your case in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Avoid Mistakes That Could Delay Your Claim: Lawyers know the ins and outs of the Social Security Disability system and can help you avoid common mistakes that can delay or even lead to the denial of your claim.