Social Security has released the 2023 data for the rate of representation at the initial claim, reconsideration, and hearing levels. The percentage of claimants who are represented has declined overall, with the most significant decrease occurring at the hearing stage. As our members are acutely aware, representation at every stage of the process is crucial to ensuring that deserving claimants receive the benefits to which they are entitled. But NOSSCR understands that increasing representative involvement is only possible if representatives are paid a reasonable fee for their services. NOSSCR feels strongly that Commissioner O’Malley should act promptly to increase the fee cap so that representatives can have the financial security to continue this vital work, and we will continue to fight for this on your behalf.

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