Understanding Contingency Fees for Disability Lawyers

Unlike other types of legal services, disability attorneys don’t charge hourly fees or require retainers. Instead, their fee is based on a percentage of your backpay—the retroactive benefits the Social Security Administration (SSA) owes you if your claim is approved.

Here’s how it typically works:

• No Upfront Cost: You pay nothing when hiring the attorney.
• You Only Pay If You Win: If your claim is denied, you owe nothing.
• Standard Fee Limit: The SSA sets the attorney fee at 25% of your backpay, with a maximum cap of $7,200 (as of 2024), unless your case requires additional appeals or federal court.

This structure makes legal help accessible, even for people in difficult financial situations.

What Does the Fee Cover?

The contingency fee covers a range of services that your disability lawyer will provide, including:

• Reviewing your eligibility and determining whether to file for SSDI, SSI, or both
• Helping you gather medical records and documentation
• Completing and submitting your application or appeal paperwork
• Preparing you for a hearing and representing you in front of an Administrative Law Judge
• Communicating with the SSA on your behalf

In some cases, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for minor costs like copying medical records or mailing documents, but these are usually minimal—and your lawyer will inform you of any expenses ahead of time.

Why Hiring a Disability Lawyer Is Worth It

While you may be able to apply for benefits on your own, having a disability attorney often increases your chances of success. Statistically, applicants with legal representation are more likely to be approved, especially during the appeals process.

Since you don’t have to pay unless you win, hiring a lawyer is a low-risk, high-reward decision—especially when dealing with the complex rules and requirements of the SSA.