Social Security advocates are attorneys or nonprofit representatives who help people with Social Security issues, especially Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security appeals, and related benefits.
They assist with claims, gather medical records, prepare appeals or hearings, and ensure you know your rights under SSA rules.
The SSA allows both attorney and non-attorney representatives.
Major organizations of Social Security advocates
- NOSSCR (National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives): A specialized association of attorneys, non-attorney advocates, and paralegals who represent SSDI/SSI claimants. They provide education, advocacy, and referrals.
- Citizens Disability: A large private advocacy group helping people apply for benefits, handle denials, and navigate hearings.
- American Disability Advocates, Inc.: Provides Social Security Disability & SSI advocacy, often offering free case evaluations.
- AMAC Foundation’s Social Security Advisory Services: Certified advisors who counsel retirees and pre-retirees on Social Security options. Useful for questions, planning, or decision-making.
How to become an advocate recognized by SSA
If someone wants to act on your behalf or you are considering hiring them, the SSA has rules for “claimant representation.”
You must file a form (SSA-1696) appointing them as your representative.
Representatives may need to be registered with SSA if they want payment directly from SSA.
There’s also a category called EDPNA (Eligible for Direct-Pay Non-Attorney Representatives), which allows certain non-attorneys who meet qualifications to represent claimants and receive fees from the claimant’s award.
How to locate Social Security advocates in your area
- Use USA.gov Legal Aid or call 1-844-872-4681 to find affordable legal help for Social Security claims.
- Ask your local Social Security field office for a list of attorneys or representatives qualified to assist with Social Security claims. The SSA maintains a “Right to Representation” resource.
- Search local bar associations or legal aid societies in your county or state for attorneys who specialize in disability or Social Security law.
- Use national or widespread advocacy firms with a presence in many states, then see if they have an office near you.
What large national SSA-advocacy organizations exist
- Allsup LLC: A nationwide firm that helps with Social Security disability cases in all U.S. states.
- Binder & Binder®: A firm known for representing SSDI/SSI clients across many regions.
- Citizens Disability: A disability advocacy group handling Social Security disability applications, appeals, and hearings.
- American Disability Action Group: They offer advocacy for SSDI/SSI claims across multiple states.
- American Disability Alliance: A national advocacy firm focusing on Social Security disability case support.
- NOSSCR (National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives): A professional association for attorneys and advocates specializing in Social Security claims. You can use their referral or membership directory to find a local advocate.
What questions to ask a Social Security advocate
- Do you specialize in Social Security disability (SSDI/SSI) or other Social Security benefits?
- Are you admitted to practice law in my state?
- Do you handle appeals and hearings, or only initial applications?
- What is your fee structure (especially if you win)?
- Can you provide client references or success rates in cases similar to mine?
