Understand What a Disability Advocate Does

A disability advocate is a person or organization that assists individuals with disabilities in securing the benefits they are entitled to. Disability advocates do not necessarily have to be lawyers, but they are trained to understand the disability application process and can guide you in the following ways:

• Filing Disability Claims: Advocates can help you complete and submit the necessary paperwork for SSD or SSI claims.
• Gathering Medical Evidence: Advocates can assist in collecting medical records, statements from doctors, and other necessary documentation to support your claim.
• Handling Appeals: If your disability claim is denied, advocates can help you file an appeal and represent you during hearings.
• Guiding You Through the Process: The process of applying for disability benefits can be long and confusing. A disability advocate can help ensure you follow all the steps correctly.

Who Can Be a Disability Advocate?

There are different types of advocates you can hire to assist you with your disability claim. The most common types are:

• Social Security Disability Advocates: These individuals specialize in helping clients with SSD and SSI claims. They are familiar with Social Security regulations and can help you complete paperwork and represent you in hearings.
• Disability Lawyers: While not all advocates are lawyers, many disability lawyers also serve as advocates. They are fully licensed to represent you legally and can help with complex cases or appeals.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Some nonprofit organizations or government programs provide free advocacy services for individuals applying for disability benefits. These can be particularly useful if you cannot afford to pay for private advocacy services.
• Independent Advocates: These are professionals who operate independently and charge fees based on the services they provide. Independent advocates are often not lawyers but have extensive experience working with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and helping clients through the disability process.

How to Find an Advocate for Disability

Here are some steps you can take to find the right advocate for your disability case:

• Research and Recommendations: Start by researching disability advocates in your area. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or medical professionals who may have had experiences with advocates. You can also check with online directories or review sites that specialize in disability services.
• Check for Credentials: It's important to make sure that the advocate you choose has the proper credentials and experience. If they are not a lawyer, ensure that they are registered or certified by a reputable organization, such as the National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR).
• Consult Free Services: Some nonprofits or legal aid organizations offer free advocacy services, especially for those who qualify based on financial need. It’s worth exploring these options if you are concerned about the cost of hiring an advocate.
• Schedule a Consultation: Many advocates offer free consultations, where they will evaluate your case and discuss how they can assist you. Use this opportunity to ask questions about their experience, the services they provide, and their fees (if applicable).

What to Expect from Your Disability Advocate

Once you hire an advocate, here’s what you can expect:

• Help with Paperwork: The advocate will assist you in filling out all required forms accurately and completely, ensuring you meet all deadlines.
• Reviewing Your Case: They will assess your medical records, employment history, and any other documentation relevant to your disability claim to ensure your application is complete and convincing.
• Representing You at Hearings: If your claim goes to a hearing, your advocate can represent you in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), presenting evidence and arguing your case.
• Regular Communication: Your advocate will keep you updated on the status of your claim, let you know if additional information is required, and answer any questions you have throughout the process.

How Much Does a Disability Advocate Cost?

Many disability advocates work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is usually a percentage of your back pay (if your claim is approved). For most SSD and SSI claims, the fee is typically 25% of your back pay, but it is capped at $6,000.

It’s important to discuss the fee structure upfront so there are no surprises later. Some advocates may charge additional costs for services such as collecting medical records or hiring experts, but these fees are generally deducted from your back pay if your claim is successful.