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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.
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, …
Long-term disability insurance offers financial protection if you cannot work due to an illness or injury. However, many employees encounter issues when claiming these benefits from their employer-provided policies. Understanding the potential challenges can help you prepare and navigate the process effectively. Issues with Employer-Provided Policies Policy Exclusions and Limitations Many employer-provided long-term disability policies …
The Zall v. Standard Insurance Company case involves a long-term disability claim filed by Eric S. Zall, a dentist and co-owner of a dental practice, under an insurance policy with Standard Insurance Company. Zall filed this claim in 2013, at the age of 48, because of chronic neck pain and right-handed numbness and weakness resulting …
Clear and strategic communication with insurance claims adjusters is essential for claimants seeking long-term disability benefits. Every interaction with the adjuster holds significant weight in the claims process, and effective communication is crucial to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. However, many claimants face challenges in clearly and strategically communicating their situation and understanding …
When applying for disability benefits, the support of your doctor is crucial. Their medical expertise and documentation are fundamental in proving the extent of your disability to the authorities. Without their cooperation and detailed input, getting your disability claim approved can become significantly more challenging. Understanding your doctor’s pivotal role in this process is essential …
Navigating the world of long-term and short-term disability insurance claims can be complex, especially when third-party administrators come into play. In this blog post, we will delve into the role of third-party administrators in disability insurance claims and the impact they can have on claimants. What Is a Third-Party Administrator in the Context of Disability …
Are you preparing for a Social Security disability hearing only to have it postponed? You’re not alone. Delayed hearings can be frustrating and overwhelming. This post will discuss why Social Security disability hearings may be delayed and what a postponement means for your claim. Common Reasons for Postponement Disability hearings are sometimes postponed for various …
Long-term disability insurance is crucial for self-employed individuals, yet the claims process can be complex. Self-employed individuals face unique challenges when filing for long-term disability benefits, encountering hurdles that traditional employees may not experience. From proving loss of income to demonstrating the severity of their condition, self-employed individuals must navigate a distinct set of obstacles. …
The case of Howard Schmill v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife) involved a long-term disability (LTD) claim under a plan governed by the Employment Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Please note that the Ortiz Law Firm did not handle this case. Schmill, a Louisiana resident, was a foreman at Turner Industries Group, LLC, …
Long-term disability claims for neuromuscular disorders can be complex and overwhelming. Navigating the process requires a clear understanding of the intricacies involved. From the initial application to potential appeals, each step demands attention to detail. This blog post will provide valuable insights to help you understand and navigate long-term disability claims for neuromuscular disorders. Understanding …
Long-term disability claims often involve soft tissue disorders, such as back pain, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. In this blog post, we will delve into long-term disability claims for soft tissue disorders and the specific challenges and policy limitations associated with these claims. With this knowledge, claimants can navigate long-term disability claims for soft tissue …
Are you researching how to transition from short to long-term disability benefits? Short-term disability (STD) benefits provide crucial support for individuals during the initial stages of their disability. However, short-term disability coverage usually only pays benefits for a few weeks to several months. If your disability lasts long enough to exhaust your STD coverage, you …
Navy Federal Credit Union (“NFCU” or Navy Federal) is the largest credit union in the world and the largest private employer in Pensacola and Escambia County, Florida, with nearly 10,000 employees at the Pensacola campus. Navy Federal has excellent employee benefits, including short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) insurance benefits. These claims are typically administered …
This case involves Viso, who filed a long-term disability insurance claim with Federated Insurance due to congenital hearing loss. The policy provided for up to 60 months of disability insurance benefits should Viso become disabled before age 65. The policy included the following definitions: Viso’s physician, Dr. Steven Dear, partially completed his Statement of Disability, …
Long-term disability coverage is important, especially for those in the oil, gas, or energy sectors. Workers often face dangerous conditions and physical demands in these industries that can lead to disability. These injuries range from minor sprains and strains to severe accidents and exposure to toxic substances, resulting in permanent disability. A long-term disability plan …
A vocational expert is a professional who provides testimony regarding the vocational aspects of a disability claim. The presence of a vocational expert in a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hearing can significantly influence the outcome of a claim. By providing insights into a claimant’s work-related abilities and limitations, vocational experts contribute essential information for …
The case involves a dispute over long-term disability (LTD) benefits between Geiger, the claimant, and Zurich American Life Insurance Company of New York (“Zurich”), the administrator of an ERISA-regulated benefits plan. Background Geiger worked at CBS News in New York as a writer/editor. In March 2018, at the age of 58, Geiger could not go …
Disability insurance claims for Amazon employees can be a crucial aspect of ensuring financial stability in times of unexpected hardship. Amazon employees often rely on disability insurance to provide a safety net when they cannot work due to illness or injury. Understanding the ins and outs of this process is essential for protecting one’s financial …
