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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.
Here you can browse all of our posts related to Social Security Disability claims.
In a surprising but welcome move, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has withdrawn a controversial proposal that would have made it harder for older Americans to qualify for disability benefits. The decision comes after significant backlash from disability advocates and concerns raised within the Trump administration. The now-shelved plan …
If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability benefits, chances are you’ve spent some time checking the status of your claim through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) online portal. And if you’re like many claimants, you may have found the information confusing, vague, or even unsettling. But here’s the …
When you apply for long-term disability (LTD) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you’re asserting that you’re unable to work due to a medical condition. Many claimants don’t fully grasp what that means in practice—or how even minimal work activity can be used against them. Whether you’re running errands for a neighbor, …
If you’re applying for long-term disability (LTD) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you know that working can put your claim at risk. But what about hobbies? Activities like painting, photography, gardening, woodworking, or volunteering may seem harmless—but depending on how they’re perceived, your insurer or the Social …
If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits and have an upcoming hearing, you’re not alone. Many applicants only win benefits at the hearing stage — but preparation is key. Below are some of the best attorney-tested strategies for increasing your chances of success. 1. Know What the Judge Is Looking For Administrative Law Judges …
If you’ve applied for long-term disability (LTD) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may think that driving for Uber, picking up freelance projects, or selling crafts on Etsy is harmless. After all, it’s flexible, sporadic, and usually not a full-time income. But here’s the problem: gig work and part-time jobs still count as …
When financial pressures mount due to a medical condition, it’s natural to look for ways to stay afloat. Many people receiving or applying for long-term disability (LTD) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits wonder: “Can I work part-time to make up the difference?” Unfortunately, that approach can backfire. Disability benefits are …
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 …
Some hearings require more effort than others, and today’s hearing before an Administrative Law Judge was one of them. It was a case where I really had to work as the claimant’s attorney to help him win the claim, but the effort paid off. The Challenge: A Medical Expert Who “Missed” Key Evidence The hearing …
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 …