If your application is denied by an Administrative Law Judge and the case is appealed to the U.S. District Court, you will be required to pay a $405.00 filing fee. If you are unable to afford the filing fee and have minimal income and assets, the Court has a form to request a waiver of the filing fee called an Informa Pauperis Petition (IFP).
Attorney’s fees are governed by Federal Law and are paid only if you win benefits on appeal or if your case is remanded for a new hearing. Fees are paid from the Equal Access to Justice Act fund (EAJA), and the attorney may also file for up to 25% of your back benefits minus the EAJA fees once benefits are awarded. We use a detailed written fee agreement that explains how the attorneys’ fees are computed.
Social Security Disability – Basics: https://nosscr.org/social-security-basics/
Social Security Online: http://www.ssa.gov/appeals/index.html
Apply for Disability Benefits: http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability
Social Security Forms Page: https://www.ssa.gov/forms/
Benefit Calculators: http://www.ssa.gov/planners/calculators.htm
Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org
US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit: http://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/
US District Court Western District of WA: http://www.wawd.uscourts.gov/
US District Court Eastern District of WA : http://www.waed.uscourts.gov/
Helpful Legal Links:
Findlaw: http://www.findlaw.com
NOSSCR – National Organization of SS Claimants’ Representatives
http://www.nosscr.org/
Medical Links: National Institutes of Health www.nih.gov