Fight For Your Rights. Secure Income. Restore Dignity.
Photo of Professionals at Spector and Lenz, PC
Fight For Your Rights. Secure Income. Restore Dignity.
Photo of Professionals at Spector and Lenz, PC

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Will This Cost?

The fee for legal representation in most disability matters is set by law (not by the attorney). The fee for a successful result would be 25% of past-due benefits with a cap of $6,000. The final amount must be approved by the Social Security Administration. The fee is similar in federal court, however, without the cap.

If Spector and Lenz, PC, is not successful in securing benefits, we do not receive attorneys’ fees. In that case, the only cost to you is for obtaining your medical records

If you’d like to discuss your situation, your first conversation is at no charge. Don’t hesitate to call us at 312-815-5231.

How Long Does This Take?

It takes several months from date of application to get a disability determination in the Chicagoland area. If your claim is denied and a hearing is required, it may take two to three years to have your case heard by a judge.

Why Does It Take So Long?

Because of the volume of cases is huge, 2.2 million in 2018, and the appeals process is long. If your application is denied (and 65% are), you are entitled to four levels of appeal. Learn more about the process by reading “The Patience Game.”

Exactly What Does Spector and Lenz Offer?

Our social security disability law firm helps people secure their Social Security and/or SSI disability and related benefits, such as children’s and survivors’ benefits. We assist with initial claims. We also assist with appeals when the government denies your claim. We’ve been doing this work since 1981 and have helped thousands of clients. If you’d like to discuss your situation, our first conversation is at no charge. Don’t hesitate to call us at 312-815-5231.

What About Workers’ Comp?

Be sure to tell your Spector and Lenz, PC, attorney if you have a pending workers’ compensation claim or if you have settled a worker’s compensation claim. Receipt of workers’ compensation — either by periodic payment or by settlement — may affect the amount of your disability benefits.

Can I Use My Current Bank Account?

We recommend that you should set up a separate bank account for your Social Security funds. Do not put any other funds in this account. Give SSA your account information when you apply, or bring SSA a deposit ticket or canceled check from this account to set up direct deposit of your SSA checks.

When Would Benefits Begin?

There is a five-month waiting period (five full calendar months) after disability onset before any SSDI, or DIB (disability insurance), benefits are payable. If fully approved for the period 18 months or longer prior to application, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits will be payable for 12 months prior to application. SSI benefits are payable back to the month of application if you are financially eligible. There are no SSI benefits payable prior to the date of application.

Where Are Your Offices?

We are located in downtown Chicago, at 741 South Humphrey
. There is parking nearby, and our office can be reached by CTA trains and buses. We primarily serve the greater Chicago area, including northwest Indiana. If you are not able to travel to our offices, we can consult by phone. If we are not able to offer services, we can make recommendations for you.

How Can I Make An Appointment?

Call us at 312-815-5231, M – F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central time. We are always monitoring our email — you can also write to us.