No Upfront Fees: Disability Lawyers Work on Contingency

Disability lawyers generally do not charge any upfront fees. Instead, they work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case and are awarded Social Security Disability benefits. This arrangement makes legal representation more accessible, especially if you are financially struggling due to your disability.

Typical Fees for Disability Lawyers

• 25% of Your Back Pay: The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows lawyers to charge a fee of up to 25% of your back pay (the lump sum of benefits owed from the time you applied until the date of approval).
• $6,000 Maximum Cap: No matter how large your back pay is, the maximum fee a disability lawyer can charge is $6,000. This means if your back pay exceeds a certain amount, the lawyer's fee will still be capped at $6,000.
• For example, if your back pay is $30,000, the lawyer’s fee will be 25%, or $7,500. However, the SSA’s fee cap means that the lawyer will only receive $6,000.
• If your back pay is $20,000, then 25% would be $5,000, and the lawyer would receive this amount.

No Fee If You Lose Your Case

If your Social Security Disability claim is denied, and you do not receive any benefits, you will not owe the lawyer anything. Disability lawyers are only paid if you win your claim or receive back pay.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the contingency fee structure ensures that you won’t pay unless you win, there may be other minor costs associated with your case, including:

• Medical Record Fees: Your lawyer may help you obtain medical records, and some healthcare providers may charge a fee for releasing these documents.
• Expert Witness Fees: In certain cases, your lawyer may need to hire expert witnesses (such as medical professionals) to support your case, which could incur additional fees.
• Administrative Costs: These could include fees for copying, mailing, or filing documents related to your case.

These additional costs are generally small compared to the overall disability lawyer fee, and your lawyer should inform you of any potential charges.

Why Hiring a Disability Lawyer is Worth the Cost

Although Social Security Disability claims can be done without a lawyer, hiring one can increase your chances of success and reduce the likelihood of mistakes that could lead to a denial. Here’s why it may be worth the cost:

• Experience and Knowledge: Disability lawyers are well-versed in SSA rules, regulations, and the disability criteria required to win a case. They understand how to present the strongest case possible.
• Higher Approval Rates: Statistics show that people who hire a disability lawyer have a higher rate of approval compared to those who apply on their own.
• Navigating the Appeals Process: If your claim is denied, a lawyer can assist you with the appeals process, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

What Happens After I Win My Case?

Once you win your case and are approved for Social Security Disability benefits, the lawyer’s fee will be deducted directly from your back pay. You will then begin receiving monthly disability benefits. Importantly, your lawyer’s fee will not impact your ongoing monthly benefits, only your back pay.

Finding the Right Disability Lawyer for You

When choosing a disability lawyer, it’s important to:

• Look for experience in Social Security Disability cases. Make sure they are knowledgeable about the SSA’s process and criteria.
• Ask about their fee structure. Many lawyers offer free consultations, so you can ask questions and get an estimate of what their fees would be for your case.
• Check reviews and references. Reading reviews from other clients or asking for references can help you choose a lawyer with a proven track record of success.