How much can a lawyer charge to represent me in a Social Security Disability case?
If you're considering hiring a disability lawyer to help you with your Social Security Disability claim, you may be wondering how much it will cost you. After all, you're already dealing with financial strain due to your disability, so you want to make sure that you can afford the help you need.
The good news is that Social Security limits the amount that a disability lawyer can charge for their services. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), disability lawyers can only charge a fee if they win your case. This fee is limited to 25% of your back pay or retroactive benefits, up to a maximum of $7,200.
Here's how it works: If you're approved for disability benefits, you'll receive a lump sum payment that includes all of the benefits you're owed from the date you became disabled to the date you were approved. This lump sum is often referred to as "back pay" or "retroactive benefits." Your disability lawyer can only take a fee from this lump sum, and only if they win your case.
For example, let's say that you're approved for disability benefits and your back pay amounts to $20,000. Your disability lawyer can take a fee of up to 25% of this amount, which would be $5,000. However, if your back pay is, lets say, $35,000, 25% of this amount is $8750, however, your disability lawyer's fee is capped at $7,200. In addition to the fee limit, the SSA also requires disability lawyers to submit a fee agreement for approval before they can take a fee from your back pay. This agreement must outline the terms of the fee, including the percentage that the lawyer will take and any expenses that will be deducted.
It's important to choose a disability lawyer who is experienced in Social Security Disability cases and who understands the fee agreement process. You should also make sure that you understand the terms of the fee agreement before you sign it.
In summary, the most a disability lawyer can charge for their services is 25% of your back pay or retroactive benefits, up to a maximum of $7,200. This fee is only charged if the lawyer wins your case, and it must be approved by the SSA. If you're considering hiring a disability lawyer, make sure to choose someone who is experienced. Christopher Le has over a decade of experience in handling disability cases and has handled several thousand social security disability hearings.