Looking for a rewarding career that lets you work from home, help people in need, and earn money legally representing clients? Becoming an EDPNA (Eligible for Direct Pay Non-Attorney) might be your perfect fit.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to become an EDPNA, what it costs, what you can earn, and how to get started helping people with Social Security Disability claims.
Contents
What Is an EDPNA?
An EDPNA is a non-attorney representative approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help individuals with disability claims. EDPNAs can legally represent clients at every stage of the Social Security Disability process except federal court.
Best of all, you get paid directly by the SSA when your client wins their case.
How To Become an EDPNA
Here are the basic steps:
1. Meet the Qualifications
You must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree or 4 years of relevant work experience (e.g., social work, medical, benefits assistance), and
- Be at least 18 with a clean criminal record.
2. Apply and Pay the Fee
- Apply during the open window (usually in February).
- Submit Form SSA-1691.
- Pay a $1,000 application fee (personal check or money order).
- Send form and application fee to:
ATTN: EDPNA
Stratcomm, Inc.
161 Worcester Rd. Suite 204
Framingham, MA 01701
3. Pass the SSA Exam
- Take a remote, open-book multiple-choice exam.
- You need a score of 70% or higher to pass.
- The exam is offered once a year (typically in May or June).
4. Get Liability Insurance
- Required coverage: $100,000 per incident / $500,000 aggregate.
- Annual premiums usually run $600–$800/year.
5. Register With SSA
- File Form SSA-1699 to get listed as an EDPNA.
- Maintain continuing education and update your insurance annually.
How Much Can You Make as an EDPNA?
EDPNAs earn money when their client wins. The SSA pays the representative up to 25% of the claimant’s past-due benefits, capped at $7,200 (as of 2024).
Example:
If your client is awarded $20,000 in backpay, you earn $5,000 (SSA pays you directly).
Income Potential:
| # of Cases/Year | Average Fee | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $4,000 | $40,000 |
| 25 | $5,000 | $125,000 |
| 50 | $6,000 | $300,000 |
Income depends on how many cases you take and how successful you are. Some EDPNAs work part-time, while others turn it into a six-figure business.
Can You Work in Any State?
Yes! Social Security is a federal program, so you can represent clients in all 50 states and U.S. territories. Many EDPNAs work fully remote, doing everything by phone, email, and video hearings.
Study Resources to Help You Pass the Exam
- Nolo’s Guide to Social Security Disability – Great intro book.
- Quizlet Flashcards – Free online practice.
- Tower Law Group’s Study Guide – 100 questions + answer explanations.
- NADR Prep Course – Self-paced training with practice exams.
Pro Tip: Build Your Own Business
Many EDPNAs start their own businesses by:
- Setting up a simple website
- Offering free consultations
- Partnering with doctors, rehab centers, or law firms for referrals
- Using Facebook ads or Google Business to get local leads
Final Thoughts
Becoming an EDPNA is a low-cost, high-impact way to make money while making a difference. With the right prep and dedication, you can build a flexible career helping people navigate the Social Security Disability process all while getting paid directly by the government.
