The things people ask before they call

Social Security sets the fee by rule and pays it out of back pay, so there is no fee without back pay. The VA allows a fee only after its first decision. Costs, like records fees, are separate and may be owed even if a claim is denied.

Months, and in some cases more than a year. The stage you’re at and the office handling the claim matter most. I’ll tell you what the next step is and roughly what it waits on.

If a deadline is near, file and call me after. If you have time, call first, because how a claim begins can shape how it ends.

Some work is allowed, and some earnings can end a Social Security claim. Talk to me before you take a job or add hours.

Almost never. A denial usually opens an appeal, and the deadline is short: often 60 days for Social Security, and a year for most VA decisions. The date is on the letter.

I take Social Security disability, SSI and VA disability claims. For workers’ compensation or private disability insurance, I’ll say so right away and suggest where to look.

Not usually. Most of the work is done by phone, mail and secure upload, and we meet in person when it helps. Hearings may be held by phone or video.

I’ll write to your treating providers and ask them specific questions. I’ll also tell you which ones are worth asking and which aren’t.

Any letter from Social Security or the VA, the names of your doctors, and a list of the jobs you’ve held. If you don’t have them yet, call anyway.

What you tell me while asking for legal help is protected once I’ve agreed to represent you. Until then, please don’t send confidential details through the website.