If a medical condition is preventing you from working at your job, you are very likely experiencing money problems. You might qualify for Social Security disability benefits, but one of the main qualifications for that form of financial help is that you must be unable to do your job, so you don't have any income. To make matters worse, the Social Security application and approval process can be extremely long. Since many first-time Social Security applicants are turned down, you might be ready to give up. Read on to find how you can not only get some first-rate legal help for your appeal but also how you can do so without having to pay anything for that help out of pocket.
The Need for Help
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict guidelines about gaining benefits, and that is why it is not so unusual to be turned down. Fortunately, the SSA has an appeals process where you can address the issues in your application that resulted in the denial. For example, if you failed to provide enough proof of your medical condition, the appeal hearing provides you with the opportunity to present that proof. Social Security attorneys can evaluate your case and the reasons for the denial and then be by your side for your appeal hearing.
Understanding Back Pay
Back pay is provided to SSA applicants that are approved for benefits. Since the time period between the date of disability and the date that you finally get approved can be months long, the SSA allows you to be paid a lump sum that covers the benefit amounts you would have received while you continue to wait for an approval.
Paying Your Attorney
In most cases, legal representation can be expensive, particularly for those who have been out of work for some time due to their medical condition. The SSA and certain approved Social Security attorneys, however, have banded together to offer applicants a way to pay their legal fees. The money to pay comes from your back pay. You and your attorney will come to an agreement based on SSA rules and then the SSA must approve the agreement.
The Limit on Fees
The SSA places a top limit on how much your attorney can charge you for their service. They can charge you up to 25% of your back pay, and the fee is deducted from your lump sum payment before it is paid to you. Regardless of how much back pay you are owed, the top fee you will pay your attorney is $6,000. If you are not owed back pay, you won't be able to use this method of obtaining legal help. Speak to a Social Security disability lawyer to find out about your chances of being approved on appeal as soon as possible after your denial letter arrives.
