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Ortiz Law Firm | National Disability Law Firm
Ortiz Law Firm is dedicated to helping people recover the disability benefits they deserve. We handle group Long Term Disability (LTD) claims, individual disability insurance policy claims, ERISA disability claims, and Social Security Disability claims.
Facing a Social Security disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not prepared for the curveballs they might throw at you. Have you ever wondered what kind of trick questions an SSA judge might ask during a disability claims hearing? In this post, we’ll examine some common trick …
In Gill v. UNUM Life Insurance Company of America, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California decided a dispute over long-term disability (LTD) benefits. The plaintiff, Terrance Gill, was a project manager at Union Bank when he applied for LTD benefits. He received benefits under a UNUM policy governed by the Employee …
When dealing with a long-term disability denial, understanding if your claim falls under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) can significantly impact the process and outcome of your claim. ERISA, a federal law that sets standards for most employer-sponsored retirement and health plans, also governs certain long-term disability insurance policies. If your disability claim …
I recently had the privilege of representing a client whose long-term disability (LTD) benefits were wrongfully terminated after ten years of receiving monthly benefits. Our client, a 62-year-old from Rhode Island, had previously thrived in a highly demanding cybersecurity role as a data security specialist. However, because of severe and progressively worsening health conditions, they …
Navigating the complexities of a long-term disability denial can be overwhelming. After facing a denial, understanding how to request your claim file and policy is crucial. Reviewing your claim file is essential to gain insight into the reasons behind the denial and to explore potential avenues for appeal. This guide will walk you through the …
Are you wondering how to secure Social Security disability benefits for your dependents? Understanding the ins and outs of this process can be crucial for providing financial support for your loved ones. Disability benefits for dependents can offer monetary help to improve their well-being significantly. This blog post will guide you through the eligibility criteria …
In Easter v. Hartford Life & Accident Ins. Co., the plaintiff, Audrey M. Easter, a former Social Worker for Intermountain Healthcare, was insured under a disability insurance plan administered by Hartford. Under this plan, Defendant Hartford was the claims administrator responsible for determining benefits and the payor of those claims. ERISA governed the insurance plan. …
Social Security disability video hearings have become an increasingly common way for claimants to present their cases to administrative law judges. With the convenience of virtual platforms, these video hearings offer a practical solution for individuals who may face challenges attending in-person hearings for a variety of reasons. In this blog post, we will explore …
Understanding the Date Last Insured (DLI) is crucial when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The DLI serves as a cutoff point for individuals seeking SSDI benefits. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it significant? Understanding the Date Last Insured The Date Last Insured represents the last date a person is …
Here is a list of your legal rights concerning your claim for long-term disability insurance benefits. This is not a complete list but is intended to highlight some of your most important rights. Seven Legal Rights Concerning Your Claim for Long-Term Disability 1. You Have the Right to Buy an Individual Policy Directly from an …
Having a medical expert (ME) at your Social Security disability hearing can significantly impact the outcome of your case. These professionals are vital in providing expert testimony and medical evidence to support your disability claim. Medical experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, helping to clarify complex medical conditions and their …
The case of Mucciacciaro v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. This legal battle centers around Sandra Mucciacciaro, the Plaintiff, and Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company, the Defendant. The legal dispute pertains to a claim for long-term disability benefits, with …
Navigating a disability claim can be a daunting journey, especially for those grappling with disabilities that are hard to prove. Conditions involving chronic pain and fatigue may pose significant challenges when it comes to providing tangible proof, as their symptoms are often subjective and fluctuate in nature. These disabilities can be met with skepticism and …
Have you ever wondered if you can take a vacation while on disability benefits? It’s a common question among claimants receiving Social Security disability or long-term disability benefits. Enjoying some time away may seem appealing, but it can also raise concerns about how it may affect your benefits. This blog post will delve into taking …
The case involves Lisa Leif suing Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company under ERISA, claiming wrongful denial of long-term disability (LTD) benefits. W.B. Mason Company, Inc. employed Ms. Leif as a Collection Representative. Leif suffers from atherosclerotic heart disease, refractory angina, coronary spasms, and COPD. As she was no longer able to work due to …
Long-term disability claim forms can be daunting and overwhelming, but completing them efficiently is achievable with a clear understanding and the right approach. Whether navigating the process for yourself or assisting someone else with the paperwork, knowing how to complete a long-term disability claim form is crucial. By breaking down the form into manageable sections …
The case of Harmon v. Unum Life Ins. Co. of Am. involves plaintiff Joey Harmon against Unum Life Insurance Company of America regarding a claim for long-term disability (LTD) insurance benefits. Mr. Harmon was a facilities technician for 24 Hour Fitness. He suffered a back injury leading to surgery and claimed LTD benefits under policies …
When navigating the complexities of severance packages and long-term disability insurance benefit claims, individuals often face many challenging decisions and uncertainties. Particularly – what happens when you’re presented with a severance offer while simultaneously pursuing a long-term disability insurance claim? If you sign the severance agreement, are you unintentionally giving up your right to LTD …
The plaintiff, Heath Evans, was employed by Schlumberger Technology Corporation. Evans worked as a wireline operator, a role the Department of Labor classified as requiring very heavy physical labor. Evans suffered a workplace injury to his back in November 2013, leading to significant back pain and functional limitations. He underwent two surgeries, one in 2014 …
Most disability insurance policies require claimants to complete an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) form when applying for long-term disability benefits. ADL forms offer a tangible way to demonstrate the extent of limitations caused by a disability. When completed correctly, they clearly show how a condition impacts a person’s day-to-day life and functionality. By accurately …
How you fill out the Social Security Function Report (Form SSA-3373) is crucial to the success of your Social Security Disability claim. This detailed form collects essential information about how your medical condition affects your ability to work. Many applicants find this form overwhelming or confusing, but understanding how to complete it accurately can significantly …
Are you navigating the complexities of ERISA long-term disability claims and seeking to ensure a full and fair review of your case? This article will delve into your right to a full and fair review under ERISA regulations to equip you with essential knowledge for a successful claim. What Is a Full and Fair Review …
Karen Jette, formerly employed as a legal assistant, filed for short-term disability (STD) benefits on July 23, 2013, and subsequently applied for LTD benefits on August 16, 2013, due to lower back pain. United of Omaha Life Insurance Company initially approved STD benefits and later approved LTD benefits on May 6, 2014, after an appeal …
Are you applying for Social Security benefits and wondering how to correctly fill out the SSA’s work history form? Understanding the importance of accurately completing this form is crucial, as it directly impacts your eligibility for benefits and the amount you may receive. We will guide you through filling out the SSA’s work history form, …
