When you’re applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, hiring an experienced legal representative can dramatically increase your chances of approval. Claimants who obtain representation are three times more likely to be approved for benefits than those without representation, especially if their initial application was denied. But one of the most common concerns is the cost. How much does a legal representative for an SSA disability claim cost?
The good news? Most disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect when it comes to legal fees and costs.
The Standard Fee Structure: Contingency Basis
Disability attorneys typically do not charge upfront fees. Instead, their payment comes as a percentage of your back pay—the lump sum of past-due benefits you’re awarded.
Maximum Fee Allowed: The maximum fee is either 25% of your past-due benefits or $9,200, whichever is less. This amount is not set by the legal representatives but by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and is subject to change.
Most importantly, if you don’t win your claim, your legal team typically does not get paid.
What Is “Back Pay”?
Back pay is the amount of disability benefits you are owed from the time the SSA determines your disability began (called your “established onset date”) up until the time your claim is approved. Your attorney’s fee comes only from this amount, not your ongoing monthly benefits. This is extremely important to note: if you speak with someone who says they will take a portion of your ongoing monthly benefits, RUN!
Out-of-Pocket Costs
At Parmele Disability Advocates, we do not charge for consultations or require retainers. Although there may still be some small out-of-pocket expenses, such as medical records requests, this is fully detailed in our fee agreement, and we highly encourage you to fully review this document and ask any questions so there are no surprises later on.
What If I Lose My Case?
If you lose your claim, you generally don’t owe any representation fee. Again, it is the claimant’s responsibility to review the fee agreement before signing. It must be approved by the SSA to ensure fairness.
Why Hire Legal Representation?
Firstly, given that you don’t pay unless you win, hiring legal representation is often a smart move. Your legal team will help complete paperwork correctly, gather strong medical evidence, navigate complex SSA rules and deadlines, and, if needed, represent you at a hearing. According to SSA data, having legal representation significantly improves the odds of your disability claim being approved.
Secondly, the legal team at Parmele Disability Advocates has helped 61,000+ individuals receive their disability benefits. We feel that speaks volumes about our experience and ability to assist you in obtaining your deserved benefits. We also have over 150 years of combined disability experience. Who wouldn’t want that amount of knowledge and competency representing them?
WRAPPING IT ALL UP
Hiring a disability attorney is a low-risk, high-reward decision for most applicants. With a clear contingency fee model regulated by the SSA, you’ll know exactly what to expect—and you will not pay unless you win.
If you need help with your disability claim or are thinking of starting a claim, take advantage of Parmele’s initial no-cost consultation. You will speak with our team and together, you will review the situation and determine your next best steps. We are here to help you make a clear, informed decision.
Parmele Disability Advocates. 866-889-2570.