Social Security Attorney

A Social Security attorney works with claimants to provide information and pertinent records that can help them with a Social Security claim. Like many federal institutions, Social Security is a large and extremely complex system. But it allows for a lawyer or similar representative to stand in for any claimant hoping to gain benefits. An attorney can be particularly helpful in cases where a claim has been denied or a needs-based program such as supplemental security income (SSI) is involved. Attorneys can file the proper appeals in a timely manner and speak with government offices in a knowledgeable way. They can also coordinate possible benefits with state-based institutions such as Medi-Cal and other programs run by the California Department of Health Care Services in Sacramento, CA. Wading through that process alone can be slow and fruitless, especially if money is needed quickly to pay for medical expenses.

Fees and Payments for Social Security Attorneys Are Regulated

If an attorney charges for his services, he must file a fee agreement or a fee petition with the Social Security Administration. Lawyers cannot charge more than a specific amount to represent people, and that amount must be approved by the SSA. Generally speaking, a request will be approved provided that the attorney's fee is no more than 25 percent of the client's past-due Social Security benefits or $5,300, whichever is smaller. That allows Social Security applicants to receive competent representation without losing their payment to the very legal costs they incurred to obtain them. The offices of David Allen & Associates Law in Sacramento, CA have attorneys for people seeking Social Security and SSI benefits.