The US Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits to individuals who can’t work and earn a reasonable income because disabling conditions prevent them from doing so. In these circumstances, a disabled person may qualify for benefits to help them with the cost of basic needs.
If you’re filing for benefits in New York, strongly consider enlisting the help of a New York disability lawyer when doing so. An attorney familiar with the application process in New York can unburden you at this time while also potentially improving your chances of getting approved.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure how to find a disability lawyer in New York. As the following breakdown illustrates, it’s easier than you may think.
Step 1: Complete Free Disability Evaluation
Completing the Free Case Evaluation on this site is an easy way to get connected with a lawyer for disability in New York. The process involves submitting the following:
- Personal Information: You’ll need to provide your full name, contact information, and address in New York State when completing the disability evaluation.
- Details About Your Disability: Providing a description of your medical condition (including any official diagnoses you’ve received) and how it affects your ability to work can help a New York disability benefits lawyer better offer valuable information when reviewing your case.
- Current Status: If you’re researching how to find a disability lawyer in New York, you may be submitting a claim for the first time, or you may be appealing a denied claim/application. Explain the status of your case when completing the form for the Free Case Evaluation.
Step 2: Connect with a New York Lawyer
Upon receiving your submission, DBH will apply its screening process to connect you with a lawyer who has the experience and qualifications necessary to handle a disability case in New York.
When applying for disability in New York, it’s very important to have representation from a qualified New York disability benefits lawyer. Their understanding of the application process can simplify every step while also potentially optimizing your chances of receiving an approval. A lawyer for disability in New York may have the following types of knowledge that could play a significant role in your case:
- Knowledge of local SSA offices and their procedures/policies
- Familiarity with New York administrative law judges (ALJs), whose rulings could impact your case’s outcome
- Familiarity with medical providers who can provide the care you need while also helping you gather proper documentation
Step 3: Initial Consultation with Your New York Disability Lawyer
The lawyer you’re connected with will reach out to schedule an initial consultation. The consultation or case review gives you an opportunity to discuss a case, and learn more about your legal options while also getting a sense of whether a particular attorney is right for you.
Take this time to learn more about an attorney’s process. Your goal is to gain practical information while deciding if you’re comfortable working with the lawyer you connect with.
Step 4: Agreement
You don’t have to hire a lawyer after a consultation. If you’re happy with what you learn, they’ll offer you an agreement to sign. The agreement is a contract stating the terms of the attorney-client relationship. It will contain information about important topics like a lawyer’s fee, which is usually a percentage of the back pay a client receives (more on this below).
Find out how you will remain in contact with your lawyer when signing the agreement. Remaining in contact with your lawyer is essential as your case progresses.
How Much Does a Disability Lawyer Cost in New York?
If you have a disability that prevents you from working and earning an income, you might understandably assume that you can't afford to hire a lawyer to assist with your case. Although this is a natural assumption, it's important to understand that hiring a lawyer will not necessarily add to your financial burdens.
The vast majority of Social Security disability attorneys in New York do not charge upfront fees for their services. In fact, they may charge no fees at all unless a client wins a case. If you receive an approval when you apply for disability benefits, you will qualify for back pay. This is a payment that covers the period between when you became disabled (and submitted an application accordingly) and when the SSA finally approved your application.
A New York disability lawyer often sets their fee as a portion or percentage of the back pay that a client receives. As of late 2024, the maximum amount a New York disability benefits lawyer can charge is 25% of a client’s back pay, or $9,200, whichever is less.
The initial case evaluation is also free. You aren't taking a financial risk when you discuss your case with a lawyer. Instead, you're getting the opportunity to learn more about your options at no cost to you. If you decide to hire a lawyer, you won't have to worry about paying upfront fees. Learn more by taking the Free Case Evaluation to speak with a New York Social Security Disability Benefits lawyer who may be able to assist with your case.
