Why Hire a Disability Lawyer for SSDI?
Filing for SSDI is more than just filling out a few forms. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies around 67% of initial applications and over 85% of reconsiderations. That means if your first claim is denied and you request for a reconsideration, your chances of being approved are still slim without help.
That’s where hiring a disability lawyer can make a real difference. A good disability lawyer understands how to build a strong case. They guide you through the system, communicate with doctors, and deal with SSA guidelines that often confuse applicants.In fact, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reports that people with legal representation are nearly three times more likely to be approved for SSDI compared to those who apply alone.
Even with the benefits of legal help, many people hesitate to hire a lawyer. The most common reason? They are worried about the cost. But legal help for SSDI might be more affordable than you think. Today, we’ll explain what disability lawyers charge, what is included in their fees, and why it often makes sense to have legal representation on your side.
Key Takeaways
•Disability lawyers charge 25% of your back pay, with a maximum fee of $9,200, as regulated by the SSA.
•You only pay if your case is approved, and there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.
•Future SSDI payments are not affected. The fee is taken only from your past-due benefits.
How Much Do Disability Lawyers Charge for SSDI?
One of the most common questions people ask when thinking about hiring a lawyer is, “How much will this cost me?” Many claimants worry about the payment they have to provide to an attorney to start working on their case. What they don’t know is, most SSDI lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you only pay if you win your case. This system was designed to make legal help accessible to everyone, regardless of income or financial hardship.
If your claim is successful, your lawyer typically receives 25% of your back pay, with a cap of $9,200. This is the maximum allowed under SSA rules. You do not pay the lawyer directly. Instead, their fee is taken out of your back pay by the Social Security Administration and sent to them automatically. You can read more about that here.
It is also important to know that this is a one-time fee. It comes only from your past-due benefits. Your monthly SSDI checks going forward are completely yours. The lawyer does not take any portion of those future payments.
Are There Upfront Costs or Hidden Fees with SSDI Lawyers?
Most disability law firms do not charge anything upfront. There’s no initial consultation fee, no retainer, and no need to pay out-of-pocket to get started.
That said, some firms might pass along small costs related to managing your case, like requesting medical records or mailing documents. These costs are typically minimal and may be reimbursed only if you win your case. Other firms might deduct these expenses from your back pay.
At Victory Disability, we do not charge for any additional or out-of-pocket expenses. There are no filing fees, mailing charges, or hidden costs. You will never be surprised by a bill from us.
Still, it is always a good idea to ask upfront about any possible charges. A reputable law firm will explain everything clearly before you sign anything.
What Is Not Covered by SSDI Attorney Fees?
While your lawyer’s fee covers all legal work involved in handling your claim, there are some things it does not include. It is important to understand what is and is not part of the fee so you know what to expect if your claim gets approved.
Your lawyer’s fee does not cover:
- Doctor visits or medical treatment
- Prescription costs or therapy
- Travel expenses
- Any services not related to the legal process
It’s also important to note that your attorney cannot take a percentage of your ongoing SSDI checks. Once the SSA releases your back pay and the attorney is paid from that amount, your future benefits are entirely yours.
In rare cases, an attorney may ask the SSA for permission to collect a higher fee. This usually happens when the case is especially complex or time-consuming. However, that request must be reviewed and approved by the SSA. You are never charged more without your knowledge.
Common Myths About the Cost of Hiring an SSDI Lawyer
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the cost of legal representation for SSDI cases. These misconceptions can cause applicants to go through the process alone, which often leads to delays or denials. Here are a few common myths and the truth behind them:
- Myth: “A lawyer will take part of my monthly SSDI payments.”
Truth: The fee only comes from back pay. Your monthly checks are not affected. - Myth: “I can’t afford a lawyer.”
Truth: You do not pay anything unless you win. - Myth: “Lawyers always add extra charges later.”
Truth: SSDI attorney fees are regulated by the SSA. A good firm will be upfront about all costs.
Getting the facts straight can help you make a better decision about hiring help. In many cases, having the right legal team makes the process smoother, faster, and more likely to succeed.
Choosing the Right SSDI Lawyer to Help with Your Case
Now that you understand how SSDI lawyers charge, you can feel more confident about getting legal help. Choosing the right law firm matters. You want someone honest about fees, who follows SSA rules, and has experience getting results for people like you.
At Victory Disability, we’ve helped thousands of individuals across the country win their SSDI benefits. We follow all SSA guidelines and provide free consultations to help you understand if you qualify for SSDI. You can learn more about our fees and how we work on this page.
If you are thinking about applying or appealing a denial, we are here to help. Contact us today at 888-474-1025 to speak with one of our team members.