What Is an EDPNA? All About Eligible for Direct Pay Non-Attorneys

If you're applying for Social Security disability, you might come across an EDPNA, short for Eligible for Direct Pay Non-Attorney. Similar to a disability lawyer, a non-attorney representative works with you to improve your chances of winning disability benefits. We’ll break down what an EDPNA is and how to choose if you should work with one.

What is an EDPNA?

An EDPNA is an Eligible for Direct Pay Non-Attorney. The Social Security Administration authorizes these non-lawyer representatives to handle disability claims. To become an EDPNA, a person must pass a Social Security disability test. The test covers the rules, the application and appeals process, and medical and work-related evidence.

What is the difference between an EDPNA and a disability lawyer?

In many ways, working with an EDPNA is the same as working with a disability lawyer. Both an EDPNA and a lawyer can represent you during:

• The initial application for Social Security Disability

• An appeal of a Social Security  denial 

• A hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, if needed 

There are four stages of appeal in the disability application process. If your case goes past the hearing stage, an EDPNA cannot help you. This may be a good time to look for a federal disability lawyer to help with your case. 

Why would I work with an EDPNA instead of a disability lawyer?

You might choose to work with an EDPNA instead of a disability lawyer for a few reasons:

1. They focus only on disability claims. EDPNAs specialize in Social Security Disability cases, so they often have deep experience with the application and hearing process. Their expertise is concentrated on getting you the disability benefits you are entitled to. 

2. They are efficient.  EDPNAs are often efficient and responsive with cases where attorney involvement is not necessary. “For a successful claim, some of the most important things to look for in your representative are responsiveness, experience with SSA policy, and attention to detail — not just a title.” -  Maegan S., EDPNA at Atticus 

3. They are experts in Social Security disability law.  EDPNAs must complete a Social Security test on the rules and application process for Social Security disability. “While attorneys are licensed through their state bar and may practice in many areas of law, EDPNA certification reflects focused testing specifically in Social Security disability law.” - Maegan S., EDPNA at Atticus

“While attorneys are licensed through their state bar and may practice in many areas of law, EDPNA certification reflects focused testing specifically in Social Security disability law.”

How much does an EDPNA cost?

Like disability lawyers, an EDPNA works on a contingency basis, meaning it costs nothing up front. You only pay if your EDPNA wins your case and the SSA approves your claim. Your representative receives 25% of your first Social Security check. This number is regulated by law, and there are no hidden fees. The maximum amount an EDPNA or disability lawyer can receive is $9,200.

Questions about EDPNAs

Are EDPNAs as successful as lawyers in winning disability benefits?

There are similar success rates for EDPNAs and disability lawyers. At the hearing stage, disability applicants with either an EDPNA or a lawyer are three times more likely to win benefits than those without representation.

Does Atticus have lawyers or EDPNAs?

Both! Atticus works with some of the top disability EDPNAs and lawyers across the country. We carefully vet every lawyer and EDPNA in our network. We only work with disability representatives we would trust to represent our own family members. 

What to expect after I hire an EDPNA?

Hiring an EDPNA and getting started is usually simple. Here’s what the process typically looks like: 

• You’ll contact an EDPNA, either one you found yourself or one Atticus introduced to you.

• You’ll have a short intake call with the EDPNA to better understand your situation. 

• In some cases, they may ask for permission to review your medical records before officially taking your case. 

• If you both agree to move forward, they’ll send you paperwork to sign to allow them to represent you. The paperwork usually includes a retainer agreement, forms for the SSA to pay them if you win, and permission to access your medical records. 

Once everything is signed, they’ll start working on your case. This may include helping with your application, following up with the SSA, or preparing you for a hearing, depending on where you are in the process.

If you are considering applying for disability benefits, Atticus can help. Take our 2-minute quiz to connect with a client advocate who can help guide you through the next steps.

Related resources:

What Do Social Security Disability Lawyers Do (That I Can’t)?

By Jackie Jakab

Can a Lawyer Help My Social Security Disability Appeal?

By Jackie Jakab