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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 applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it’s essential to understand what factors the Social Security Administration (SSA) will consider. Certain aspects of your health and daily functioning play a role in determining eligibility, but there are also factors the SSA will not consider. Knowing what is or is not important can …
Are you considering applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits? One of the first questions on your mind may be, “How much will I receive each month?” Understanding your estimated benefit amount is important for financial planning. Here’s how to find your estimated Social Security Disability Insurance …
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has updated its Compassionate Allowances (CAL) list by adding 13 more medical conditions that now qualify for expedited disability benefits processing. This brings the total number of CAL conditions to 300. The Compassionate Allowances program identifies people whose medical conditions are so severe that …
If you’ve been seriously injured or developed a long-term medical condition that prevents you from working, you may qualify for both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and workers’ compensation (WC) benefits. While you may be able to get both at the same time, there are important rules about how these benefits work together and how …
When you’re filing a disability claim for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Long-Term Disability (LTD) a supportive statement from your treating physician can make all the difference. But what happens if your doctor is reluctant to get involved? It’s a common hurdle, and one that can often be overcome with the right approach and the …
Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to a range of symptoms that persist or develop long after the acute COVID-19 illness. Estimates suggest that between 5% and 30% of COVID-19 survivors develop long COVID, representing tens of millions of people worldwide. Now, clear patterns are emerging …
Preparing for a psychological exam required by the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can make a big difference in how you handle the process. Psychological consultative exams are often requested when the SSA doesn’t have enough information to determine the impact of mental health on your ability to …
When filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, many individuals may assume they need to hire an attorney who is physically located near them. However, in today’s digital age, this is no longer necessary. One of the most significant changes in the Social Security Disability claims process is the shift toward telephone hearings with …
Preparing for your Social Security Disability hearing can be a daunting process, but being informed and organized can greatly increase your chances of success. Below is a comprehensive guide that links key resources and advice to help you effectively navigate the hearing process. 1. Pre-Hearing Preparation Before you attend your hearing, it’s …
When facing the challenges of a disability claim, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. While larger firms have extensive staff and resources, a smaller law firm like the Ortiz Law Firm offers a personalized approach that sets us apart in the industry. 1. Personalized Attention Think about the difference between …
Preparing for a Social Security Administration (SSA) physical exam, also known as a consultative examination (CE), is essential for anyone applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA typically schedules a CE when it needs more medical evidence to decide your claim, usually because your …
Seeing your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim status update to “Step 3 of 5: We started a medical review” can feel overwhelming. At this stage, the Disability Determination Service (DDS) in your state takes a closer look at your medical condition to decide whether you qualify for disability benefits. It’s normal to feel anxious …
Navigating a Social Security disability or long-term disability insurance claim can be a complex and lengthy process, and one of the most critical aspects of your case is the medical evidence that supports your claim. The relationship you have with your doctor and how you communicate about your condition can make or break your chances …
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims involve a complex set of rules and regulations, several of which include a 5-year period. These rules address various aspects of the SSDI application and reapplication process, ranging from work history requirements to the evaluation of past employment. This article breaks down the three different …
Ongoing treatment is a critical factor in mental health disability claims, often serving as a foundational element in both the approval and continuation of benefits. Insurance companies and Social Security evaluate not only the severity of the mental health condition, but also the consistency and effectiveness of the treatment plan. Here’s why …
As we age, the chances of developing a medical condition that affects our ability to work can increase significantly. For older workers (typically defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) as individuals over the age of 50) this reality plays an important role in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. The SSA takes age into …
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has permanently adopted remote hearings as a standard option for disability claimants, a practice first implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. This policy change is intended to provide greater flexibility and reduce wait times for individuals appealing decisions on Social Security Disability Insurance …
Hannah Corbin is widely recognized as one of Peloton’s most dynamic fitness instructors, motivating thousands with her high-energy classes. On the surface, she is the epitome of physical health. But beneath the surface, Hannah faces an invisible challenge that many wouldn’t expect from a fitness professional: Hashimoto’s disease. In a candid …
When you think of a disability, visible conditions such as mobility impairments or the use of a wheelchair may come to mind. But not all disabilities are immediately and visibly obvious. Millions of Americans live with invisible disabilities—health conditions that significantly affect their daily lives but aren’t immediately obvious to …
When you’re pursuing a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim, it’s not uncommon to feel frustrated by the seemingly endless paperwork. Function reports, work history reports, and release of information forms are just a few of the forms you will fill out during the Social Security disability claim process. Many claimants ask, …
Receiving a denial of your Social Security disability claim from an administrative law judge (ALJ) after a hearing can be disheartening. After the long process of gathering evidence, attending a hearing (or multiple hearings), and waiting for a decision, a denial can feel like a major setback. You may be wondering, “Should I resubmit my …
After months, or even years, of waiting and navigating the intricate Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim process, hearing that your claim is under “final review” can bring both relief and apprehension. What does it really mean when the Social Security’s “status” bar finally says “We started step 4 of 5 of the review …
COLA is short for Cost-of-Living Adjustment. The Social Security Administration has announced a 2.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment for 2025. This rate increase will apply to the approximately 75 million Americans who receive monthly Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. For some beneficiaries, the …
People seeking Social Security disability benefits often ask third parties to write letters supporting their disability case. The SSA even provides a form that claimants can use to submit such statements. These letters help paint a fuller picture of your daily struggles and limitations. Sometimes, a well-written letter can help you win your claim. …