Contingency Fee Structure

Most Social Security lawyers charge a contingency fee, meaning you don’t have to pay anything upfront. The lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the back pay (the retroactive benefits) you receive once your claim is approved.

• Typical Percentage: The standard fee is usually 25% of your past-due benefits, but it can’t exceed $6,000.
• Example: If you are awarded $30,000 in back benefits, your lawyer would typically take 25%, or $7,500. However, due to the fee cap, the most they could charge would be $6,000.

Maximum Fees Set by the SSA

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has set strict guidelines on how much a lawyer can charge for their services:

• Fee Cap: The lawyer's fee is 25% of the total back benefits, or $6,000, whichever is less.
• This fee cap is in place to protect claimants from excessive charges. Even if your benefits amount to more than $30,000, the lawyer cannot charge more than $6,000.
  

No Fees for Denied Claims

If your disability claim is denied, you typically don’t have to pay any legal fees. Social Security lawyers generally work on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning they won’t charge you unless you win your case. However, you may still be responsible for certain out-of-pocket expenses (such as medical records or expert testimony fees), but these costs are typically separate from the lawyer's fee.

Additional Costs or Expenses

While most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, you might still encounter some additional costs during the process, including:

• Medical Records Fees: You may need to pay for copies of your medical records or reports from doctors to support your claim.
• Expert Witness Fees: If your case requires expert testimony (e.g., medical or vocational experts), you may need to cover these costs, although they are usually separate from attorney fees.
• Filing Fees: Although most cases won’t require a fee for filing, there could be minor administrative costs.

How Lawyers Determine Their Fees

Although the SSA sets a fee structure, some lawyers may offer a reduced fee if your case doesn’t go to a hearing or if it is resolved early in the process. Some lawyers may also offer payment plans for expenses outside of the contingency fee.

Factors That Can Affect the Fee

Several factors could influence the lawyer's fees:

• Complexity of Your Case: If your case is more complex or requires extensive evidence, it may take longer for your lawyer to prepare, but the SSA’s fee cap will still apply.
• Length of Time: A longer, more involved case may result in more work for the lawyer, but the maximum fee limit will still be enforced.

How to Find a Social Security Lawyer with Reasonable Fees

When hiring a lawyer for Social Security benefits, it’s important to ask about the following:

• Fee Agreement: Ensure that the lawyer’s fee structure aligns with the SSA’s contingency fee guidelines.
• Experience: Make sure the lawyer has experience handling Social Security cases and has a proven track record of success.
• Transparency: A good lawyer will explain their fees upfront and be transparent about any potential additional costs.

Why Hire a Social Security Lawyer?

Although you can apply for Social Security benefits on your own, hiring a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success. A Social Security lawyer can:

• Help you understand the complex rules and requirements for SSDI or SSI.
• Gather the necessary medical records and evidence to support your claim.
• Represent you in hearings if your case goes to an appeal.