Applying for SSDI is not easy. In fact, most people are denied the first time they apply. A Social Security Disability lawyer can guide you through the process, make sure your paperwork is correct, and represent you if you need to appeal.
The SSA’s rules are strict. Even a small mistake can cause a delay or denial. Having a lawyer improves your chance of success.
What Does a Disability Lawyer Do?
A disability lawyer helps you:
-
File your application with complete and accurate information.
-
Collect medical evidence to prove your condition.
-
Communicate with doctors about the records you need.
-
Prepare you for hearings and represent you before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
-
Appeal a denial if your claim is not approved.
At every step, the lawyer works to make sure the SSA understands your disability and how it prevents you from working. Their case management team will also follow up with SSA to prevent paperwork or payment mistakes and importantly, advise you as to the risks and strengths of your claim so you can make an informed decision moving forward.
How Much Does a Disability Lawyer Cost?
Many people worry about lawyer fees. The good news is that disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
-
You pay nothing upfront.
-
The lawyer is only paid if you win.
-
Fees are limited by law to 25% of your back pay, up to a maximum set by the SSA. The maximum fee in 2025 is $9,200, which would equal a backpay award of approximately $36,800.
Do You Really Need a Lawyer?
Some people try to apply on their own. But the process can be overwhelming. If you are already struggling with health problems, handling complex forms and deadlines is stressful. Disability lawyers also understand how the SSA approaches each claim and are practiced in representing claimants in front of administrative law judges. Their advice is critical to helping you make the best possible argument for your disability.
A lawyer also increases your chance of approval by making sure your claim is complete and supported with the right evidence. Studies show that people with legal help are more likely to win their cases.
When to Contact a Lawyer
It is best to reach out as early as possible. A lawyer can help from the very start, or after you have already been denied. Many clients wait until the hearing stage, but applying with help from the beginning often leads to faster results and larger awards for clients. Additionally, if you are still working, or have gaps of medical evidence in your claim, a disability lawyer can advise you on the likelihood of approval and on what you’ll need to do to prepare to apply.
Hiring a Local Social Security Disability Lawyer
A Social Security Disability lawyer is not just helpful — they are often critical to success. They handle the hard work, fight for your rights, and only get paid if you win. Small, local firms are often more accessible and personalized in their approach to working with claimants than large, national firms who hire local contract attorneys or have non-lawyers work on claims.
The Social Security Disability Lawyers at Collins Price have been practicing in North Carolina for decades, with thousands of successful claims awarded to our clients. If you are considering applying for SSDI or SSI, or have been recently denied, contact one of our disability lawyers for a free consultation on your claim today. There is never any fee for our services unless your claim is successful, and no obligation to hire us following your free consultation.
