Thanks for sharing your story. I actually am not surprised by it. I believe the $6000 cap is for basic services of an attorney up to a successful first ALJ hearing with a one and only attorney. It has been a while since I have read and studied the SSDI rules and regulations. If I remember correctly, the $6000 cap does NOT necessarily include any thing beyond the initial ALJ hearing.

I am very sorry to hear what you are going through and wish you the best including a denial by SSA to award the attorney the fees you quote and that you will not be delayed the benefits for which you are entitled.

Since the attorney is paid out of your benefits by SSA, until that is a settled and agreed upon amount, SSA will not be able to release your back pay to you.

I hope that you will at least immediately receive your monthly benefit while this matter regarding back-pay benefit balance is determined.