Rochester Disability Lawyer

You’ve worked hard your whole life. Whether it’s through taxes or premiums, you’ve paid for disability benefits. You believed that if you were unable to work due to a disabling illness or injury, you’d still be able to pay your bills and medical expenses. So what do you do if your disability claim is denied?

Whether through payroll taxes or insurance premiums, you paid for disability benefits with the expectation that if illness or injury ever prevented you from working, you would still be able to pay your bills and cover medical expenses. When a disability claim is denied, that sense of security can disappear quickly.

If your disability claim has been denied, you do not have to face the process alone. A Rochester disability lawyer at the Ortiz Law Firm can help if your long-term disability (LTD) claim has been denied or terminated, or if you need assistance with a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. We offer a No Recovery, Zero Fee guarantee, so you can pursue your claim without financial risk.

Why Rochester, NY Is Distinctive for Disability Claims

Rochester holds a unique position in the realm of disability claims. It combines the resources of a robust metropolitan center with the accessibility of a smaller community. The city’s economy—driven by industries such as imaging, optics, and photonics—attracts a diverse workforce.

As a result, both group and individual disability insurance policies are common in Rochester. Employers frequently offer comprehensive benefits packages, while self-employed professionals often purchase individual disability coverage. Large national insurers, including Mass Mutual, Northwestern Mutual, and Principal Financial Group, maintain a significant presence in the area.

Many employer-sponsored disability plans in Rochester are governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), which sets federal standards for how disability claims must be handled. Understanding how ERISA applies is often critical when a claim is delayed, denied, or terminated.

What Is Disability Insurance—and Why Does It Matter in Rochester, NY?

Disability insurance is a safety net designed to protect your income if illness or injury keeps you from working. Think of it as a backup plan: if the unexpected happens and you can’t earn a paycheck, disability insurance helps cover your essential living expenses—rent, groceries, medical bills, and beyond.

In Rochester, where nearly 1 in 6 adults under 65 faces some form of disability, these benefits play an important role in maintaining financial stability. Disability insurance helps bridge the gap between lost income and allowing individuals to focus on their health rather than financial stress.

Who Commonly Files Disability Insurance Claims in Rochester?

People from many professions and backgrounds in Rochester rely on disability insurance, including:

• Artists and musicians who contribute to the city’s cultural community
• Entrepreneurs and small business owners driving local innovation
• Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and therapists
• Lawyers, accountants, and other consultants
• Self-employed professionals and freelancers who purchase individual disability policies

Regardless of profession, disability insurance can provide an essential safety net when health issues interfere with the ability to work.

The Ortiz Law Firm Represents Rochester Disability Claimants

At the Ortiz Law Firm, we specialize in appealing long-term disability claim denials. Working with an experienced disability attorney can improve the chances of a successful appeal. We carefully review the claim file to identify what medical, vocational, or other evidence is needed to support your case.

Over the years, we have developed a comprehensive system for preparing a strong appeal package to support your claim. 

It is important to understand that, in most cases, you do not need to hire a local disability attorney. An attorney can effectively represent you in the administrative appeal process regardless of their location. In fact, you may have already communicated with an out-of-state claims adjuster during the process.

When it comes to filing a lawsuit for long-term disability benefits, most cases are governed by a federal regulation known as ERISA. You do not have the right to a jury trial and extensive discovery is often not allowed under ERISA. In many cases, there is no need to appear in court, which allows us to handle ERISA-governed federal court cases throughout the country.

What Happens If Your Disability Insurance Claim Isn’t Paid?

Whenever possible, we attempt to resolve disputes directly with insurance companies through negotiation and detailed documentation. In many cases, claims can be resolved without the need for litigation.

However, if an insurer still refuses payment, legal action may be necessary. We are prepared to pursue disability claims through federal court and, when appropriate, appeals to higher courts. Our familiarity with the legal system and federal regulations means we’re equipped to protect your rights at every stage.

Legal Duties of Insurance Companies Under ERISA

ERISA imposes strict federal requirements on insurance companies that administer employer-sponsored disability plans. These rules are designed to ensure transparency and fairness in the claims process.

Key ERISA protections include:

• Timely Notification: Insurers must provide clear written explanations for claim denials, including specific reasons for the decision.
• Access to Information: Claimants have the right to review the documents and records used to deny a claim.
• Full and Fair Review: Policyholders must be given an opportunity to appeal and submit additional evidence.
• Fiduciary Responsibility: Insurers must act prudently and in the best interests of plan participants.

ERISA is intended to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the administration of disability insurance benefits by holding insurers accountable to these federal standards.

Rochester Courts, Government, and Insurance Department Information

• United States District Court for the Western District of New York
• United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit
• Government of the State of New York
• New York Office of Financial Services

Rochester Social Security Disability Attorneys

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration. The application and appeal process can be complex and time-consuming.

While the Ortiz Law Firm is based in Pensacola, Florida, we represent SSDI claimants in Rochester and throughout New York, including assistance with:

• Initial SSDI applications
• Requests for reconsideration
• Hearings before an Administrative Law Judge

Rochester, NY SSA Locations and Resources

• Directions to Social Security offices in Rochester, NY
• The Social Security Administration website
• Information about the Rochester hearing office

Call the Ortiz Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation with a Rochester Disability Lawyer

Our practice focuses on disability claims, including long-term disability insurance and Social Security Disability Insurance. We offer free case evaluations for denied LTD claims and SSDI claims at the application, reconsideration and hearing stages.

Call (888) 321-8131 to discuss your Rochester disability claim today.