Your Right to Representation

You can have a representative, such as an attorney or non-attorney, to help you with your claim for Social Security Disability and SSI. Once you appoint a representative, he or she can act on your behalf before SSA by:

• Getting information from your Social Security file;

• Helping you get medical records or information to support your claim;

• Going with you, or for you, to any interview, conference, or hearing;

• Requesting a reconsideration, hearing, or Appeals Council review; and

• Helping you and your witnesses prepare for a hearing and questioning any witnesses.

What a Representative May Charge You

For your protection, in most situations, a representative can’t charge or collect a fee from you without first getting written approval from SSA. If you and your representative have a written fee agreement, your representative may ask SSA to approve it any time before we decide your claim. Usually, we’ll approve the agreement and tell you in writing how much your representative may charge as long as:

• The fee agreement is filed before SSA decides your case;

• Both parties sign the agreement;

• SSA approved your claim and you're getting past-due benefits, and

• The fee you agreed on with your representative isn't more than 25% of past-due benefits or $6,000, whichever is less.

At SSD Solutions, our fee agreement is in compliance with SSA rules. You can rest assured that we do not charge or collect a fee without first receiving approval from SSA. In fact, our fees are generally withheld by SSA and paid separately. That way, your past-due benefits are paid directly to you and not through our office. And lastly, if you do not receive past-due benefits, you do not owe us a fee.

We are here to help. If you have questions about how a representative can assist you with your claim or the fee agreement process, give us call at 407-738-38-3718.