How Does My Lawyer Get Paid for My Disability Case?

In a Social Security Disability (SSD) case, your lawyer typically works on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case or are awarded benefits. This arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without paying upfront legal fees.

If your claim is successful, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will pay the lawyer a percentage of your backpay—the retroactive benefits you are owed from the time of your disability onset until the date of approval. The maximum fee the SSA allows is 25% of your backpay, or a cap, whichever is lower.

It’s important to note that this fee is only for the backpay and not for ongoing monthly benefits. Additionally, the SSA will handle the payment directly from your backpay, so you won’t need to pay the lawyer separately.

In some cases, there may be other expenses or costs associated with the case, such as fees for obtaining medical records or expert testimony. Your lawyer may either cover these costs upfront and deduct them from the award, or ask you to pay them as they arise.

Before signing a contract, make sure to understand all fee structures and costs associated with your case. A reputable SSD lawyer will provide clear and transparent information about how they get paid.