Most Social Security disability practitioners build their practice on a handful of core service packages that clients consistently need and will pay well for. Understanding which packages move fastest and which command the highest fees will help you position your firm for growth and attract the right referral sources.
Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
Your entry-level offering should be a focused consultation where you assess whether a potential client has a viable claim. This typically runs 30–60 minutes and costs between $150–$400, depending on your market and experience level. Many disability law firms charge a flat fee here rather than hourly, which removes friction for uncertain clients and lets you screen cases efficiently. During this session, you're evaluating their medical records, work history, and the specific reason for denial or need for appeal—then delivering a candid yes-or-no recommendation. This package also builds trust; clients who get honest feedback at the start are more likely to hire you for the full representation.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Representation
SSDI cases represent the bread and butter for most practices in this space. Your representation package should cover initial application through appeal—a timeline that often stretches 1–3 years. Charge either on contingency (typically 25% of past-due benefits, capped at $6,000 by federal law) or a hybrid model where clients pay modest monthly fees ($100–$300) and you take a smaller contingency on approval. Include in this package:
- Obtaining and reviewing all medical records
- Developing the medical narrative and vocational history
- Preparing and filing the initial application
- Representing the client at reconsideration and ALJ hearing stages
- Post-hearing briefing if needed
Most firms find that contingency-only arrangements work best for client acquisition, since the financial barrier disappears. However, fee-based hybrids appeal to clients who want skin in the game and faster processing.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Cases
SSI applications differ meaningfully from SSDI—they're means-tested, involve asset limits, and often include state supplementation. Package this separately at a slightly lower contingency rate (20–22%) or monthly fee structure ($75–$200), since the past-due awards tend to be smaller. Include asset and resource analysis as part of your intake; many clients don't realize they're disqualified because they're over the asset limit, and addressing this upfront saves both parties time. Some firms bundle SSI with SSDI for clients who qualify for both, offering a blended fee.
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR) Defense
Clients already receiving benefits often panic when they receive a CDR notice—they fear losing their income stream. This creates a high-urgency, sticky service. Charge $500–$1,500 flat fee or $200–$400 per hour, since the work is typically shorter and more contained than a new application. You're gathering recent medical evidence, submitting a detailed function report, and arguing that the condition remains disabling. Many firms add this as an upsell to existing clients or advertise it as a standalone retention service to attract established beneficiaries.
Work Incentives & Benefits Planning
Once a client is approved, introduce them to work incentive programs like IRWE (Impairment-Related Work Expenses), Plans to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), and Ticket to Work. Some firms charge a flat $300–$600 for a comprehensive work incentive analysis; others bundle it into the initial contingency agreement. This service extends your relationship, increases client loyalty, and positions you as a holistic resource—not just someone who wins claims.
Appeal & Hearing Representation Add-Ons
If your base package covers up to reconsideration, create a clear add-on for ALJ hearing representation. Many clients expect this to be included; being explicit about scope prevents disputes. Charge an additional $1,000–$3,000 flat fee or increase the contingency by 5–10% for the hearing phase. This modular approach lets you offer tiered pricing and gives cost-conscious clients a lower entry point.
Pricing Strategy & Market Position
Research what established disability law firms charge in your state—rates vary significantly by region and by whether you're in a metro area or rural market. Contingency arrangements win more cases because they remove client risk, but hybrid or hourly models appeal to practitioners wanting predictable cash flow. List your service packages clearly on your website and any professional directories; if you list on Mercoly, you can showcase your full range of offerings, attract leads actively searching for disability representation, and make it easier for referral sources to direct clients your way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I charge SSI cases at the same rate as SSDI cases? No—SSI cases typically generate smaller past-due awards, so a 20–22% contingency on SSI versus 25% on SSDI reflects the actual value and effort.
Q: Can I charge both a retainer and a contingency fee? Yes, but disclose the arrangement clearly in your fee agreement and ensure it complies with your state bar rules; many jurisdictions allow hybrid arrangements as long as the total doesn't exceed the contingency cap.
Q: How quickly should clients expect results? Initial SSDI approvals can take 3–6 months; denials leading to hearing typically take 12–24 months from filing to ALJ decision, though this varies widely by your local Social Security office's backlog.
Get your service packages in front of the right clients—start listing your offerings today to grow your referral pipeline and close cases faster.