No Upfront Fees

One of the most appealing aspects of hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer is that there are typically no upfront fees. Most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This allows individuals who may be struggling financially to still have access to legal representation.

Contingency Fee Arrangement

A contingency fee means that the lawyer’s payment is tied directly to the outcome of your case. Here’s how it works:

• Percentage of Backpay: If your claim is approved, the lawyer typically takes a percentage of the back pay (the lump sum of benefits you’re owed from the time you became disabled until your approval).
• Standard Fee: The standard fee for Social Security Disability lawyers is generally 25% of the back pay, but it can’t exceed $6,000 (as of 2025). This fee structure is set by the Social Security Administration (SSA), and it ensures that your lawyer’s compensation is fair and transparent.

Example of Backpay Calculation:

Let’s say you are awarded $20,000 in back pay from the SSA. Your lawyer would typically receive 25% of that amount, which would be $5,000. However, if your back pay were higher, the lawyer’s fee would still be capped at $6,000, even if 25% of your back pay exceeds that amount.

No Fees if You Don’t Win

If you don’t win your Social Security Disability case, you typically won’t owe any legal fees. This contingency arrangement minimizes financial risk, allowing you to hire a lawyer without worrying about paying large amounts upfront.

However, out-of-pocket expenses for things like medical records, expert witness fees, or other costs related to building your case may still be required. These expenses are usually separate from the lawyer’s fee, but many lawyers will cover them initially and deduct them from your back pay if you win.

Fees for Appeals

If your case is initially denied and you need to go through the appeals process, the same contingency fee structure applies. If you hire a lawyer to represent you during the Reconsideration, Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), or further appeals, the 25% fee cap applies to any back pay awarded after the successful appeal. Keep in mind that the maximum fee remains at $6,000 regardless of how many stages of appeals you go through.

Additional Costs for Other Services

In some rare cases, if you need assistance beyond the typical application or appeals process (such as hiring expert witnesses or obtaining medical testimony), these costs may be separate from your lawyer’s fees. These additional expenses may vary but should be discussed upfront with your lawyer to avoid surprises.

Getting Help with Social Security Disability Claims

Even though Social Security Disability lawyers typically charge contingency fees, they can provide invaluable assistance in increasing your chances of winning your case. A lawyer will:

• Help you prepare and file the application accurately.
• Gather and present evidence to support your disability claim.
• Represent you during hearings and appeals if your claim is denied.
• Help you meet SSA deadlines and requirements to avoid unnecessary delays.