How Much Do Social Security Disability Lawyers Charge?

As of November 30, 2024, the maximum allowable fee for Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyers is $9,200 or 25% of past–due benefits, whichever amount is lower. Attorneys and clients have the flexibility to negotiate a fee, including the possibility of no charge at all. Also, SSD lawyers typically only get paid if they win your case.

If they don’t win your case, you don’t have to pay attorney fees. However, you may still need to cover some out-of-pocket costs, such as medical records. Most lawyers offer free consultations so you can discuss your case before deciding to hire them. Call an experienced Greenville Social Security Disability lawyer today to discuss a fee agreement that works for you.

Understanding the Fee Agreement Process

Disability lawyers use written fee agreements to get compensated for their work. These agreements must be approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA), which then deducts the attorney’s payment directly from the claimant’s back pay (past-due benefits). 

A fee agreement is a written contract between a claimant and their representative outlining the fee arrangement for Social Security Disability cases. It must be submitted before the first favorable decision, but the Social Security may still review late submissions if they were signed beforehand.

If the agreement meets legal requirements and no exceptions apply, SSA will approve it, setting the maximum fee the representative can charge. The fee agreement process is separate from the fee petition process; if an agreement is denied, the representative must submit a fee petition to request payment. SSA reviews fee agreements at all levels of administrative appeal.

Attorney Fees for SSDI and SSI Claims

As of November 30, 2024, the maximum fee is capped at $9,200 or 25% of back pay, whichever is lower. For example, if a claimant is awarded $50,000 in back pay, 25% of that amount would be $12,500, but since it exceeds the cap, the attorney would only receive $9,200, and the claimant would keep the rest.

In March 2024, Social Security announced that the fee cap would increase to $9,200 starting November 30, 2024, and that future increases would be tied to the cost of living adjustments (COLA). This means the cap will rise annually to keep up with inflation. Claimants should verify the current fee cap with their attorney when signing a fee agreement.

Although the maximum standard fee is $9,200, most disability lawyers receive less than the cap. However, in complex cases (such as those requiring Appeals Council reviews), an attorney may petition for higher fees. If Social Security determines the additional fees are reasonable, they may approve the request.

Check Your Fee Agreement With Your Social Security Disability Attorney

Before hiring a Social Security disability attorney, carefully review your fee agreement to understand how much you may owe. Social Security must approve the fee agreement, and any payment will come directly from your back pay.

Check for the following information in your fee agreement with the Social Security Disability lawyer:

• Attorney’s payment structure
• Maximum fee limit
• Approval requirement
• Fee deductions
• Additional costs
• Fee petition clause
• Submission deadline
• Payment terms, if denied
• Annual fee cap adjustments

Make sure your fee agreement is in writing and submitted to Social Security before your first favorable decision. If you have questions about the terms, ask your attorney to explain them before signing.

Take the Free Initial Consultation

Most Social Security disability lawyers offer a free initial consultation, giving you a chance to discuss your case without any financial obligation. During this meeting, the attorney will review your situation, ask about your medical condition, work history, and past disability applications, and determine whether you have a strong case for SSDI or SSI benefits.

The lawyer will also explain the claims process, including what evidence is needed and potential challenges you might face. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about their experience, fees, and how they handle cases.

If you decide to move forward, the attorney will help you complete the paperwork, gather necessary records, and develop a strategy to improve your chances of approval. This consultation helps you understand your options and decide if the attorney is the right fit for your case without any upfront cost.

Consult a Social Security Disability Lawyer

Managing your Social Security benefits can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Pilzer Klein, PC provides clear guidance, personalized support, and strong legal representation.

With more than 50 years of combined experience and a sole focus on Social Security Disability law, our team can handle even the most challenging cases. We understand how complex and frustrating the SSDI and SSI application process can be, especially for those facing medical and financial hardships.

Our team understands that our clients are already facing financial hardships when they reach out to us. This is why we closely work with our clients to outline a fee agreement that is clear, fair, and follows Social Security’s guidelines. Everyone deserves access to skilled legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.