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If you cannot work because of a serious medical condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Ortiz Law Firm helps people nationwide apply for benefits and appeal denials of SSDI and SSI claims. Our main office is in Pensacola, Florida, but we represent clients across the United States.
Meet Nick Ortiz: Trusted Social Security Disability Lawyer
Nick Ortiz has represented individuals with disability claims since 2005. He focuses on disability law and has helped hundreds of claimants obtain the benefits they deserve. From your first consultation, our team guides you through each stage of the process. We help you file a complete application and prepare for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge if needed.
We know this process is stressful. Every client receives access to The Disability Academy, our online library of videos that explain the application and appeal process and sample forms that explain how to complete Social Security forms correctly.
How We Can Help with Your Social Security Disability Claim
Whether you are filing for the first time or appealing an initial denial, we explain what Social Security looks for and how to present a strong case.
We assist with:
- Initial applications
- Requests for reconsideration after an initial denial
- Hearings before Administrative Law Judges
If your claim is already in review, see what happens during the medical review process (Step 3) and the final non-medical review (Step 4).
Types of Social Security Claims We Handle
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims
- Concurrent Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims
Many people qualify for both. We review your work history and financial situation to determine which programs apply.
Why Choose Ortiz Law Firm?
Choosing the right lawyer matters. At Ortiz Law Firm, we:
- Focus on disability law
- Prepare clients for each stage of the process
- Communicate clearly and set realistic expectations
- Build every case with medical and vocational evidence
We provide nationwide representation. We use secure technology to review files, meet with clients remotely, and prepare appeals no matter where you live. You will have a dedicated team that knows your claim.
Claiming Social Security Disability Benefits
To qualify, you must show that you cannot engage in substantial work because of a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
You need strong medical evidence. That includes treatment notes, test results, and doctor statements describing your functional limits. We often ask treating providers to complete Residual Functional Capacity forms to document specific limitations.
Witness letters from family, friends, or former coworkers can help show how your symptoms affect daily life. See examples in our guide to sample witness letters for Social Security Disability claims.
How To Apply
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. If you are unsure what to include, we can help you submit a complete and accurate application.
If you were denied, do not give up. Many people are approved after filing a reconsideration and, if needed, a hearing. We will review your denial and help you gather the evidence needed to challenge the decision.
The Definition of Disability
Under federal law, you are disabled if you cannot perform your past work or adjust to other work because of a medical impairment expected to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA uses a five step process to decide claims.
We explain how SSA evaluates medical evidence, age, education, and transferable skills. Understanding these factors helps us address weak points and strengthen your claim.
RELATED POST: When Is A Person Considered Disabled By The SSA?
Do You Meet the Non-Medical Requirements For the Social Security Program?
SSA also checks non medical requirements. SSDI looks at work credits. SSI has income and resource limits. Even a strong medical case can be denied if these rules are not met. Learn more in our guide to the final non-medical review process.
Who Decides If You Are Disabled?
A disability examiner (also known as a claims representative) at your state Disability Determination Services reviews your application. If denied, you can appeal and ask for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
At the hearing, a vocational expert and sometimes a medical expert may testify. We prepare you for the questions you may face and how to give clear, honest answers.
RELATED POST: Who Makes The Final Decision On Social Security Disability Claims?
Helpful Social Security Disability Pages
If you want to learn more about the Social Security Disability process, you may find these pages helpful:
- What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
- What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- How Are SSDI and SSI Different?
- Rules and Requirements to Qualify for SSD
- Starting Your Disability Claim
- What to Expect After You Apply for Disability Benefits
- How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision on a Social Security Disability Claim?
- What Evidence Does the SSA Look for in Disability Claims?
- Can You Work While Applying for Disability Benefits?
- Top 10 Mistakes That Will Destroy Your Claim
- Common Reasons Disability Claims for Mental Illness Are Denied
- Insider Tips to Strengthen Your Disability Claim
- How Do I Appeal a Denial of Social Security Benefits?
- What Happens at a Social Security Hearing?
- Common SSA Terms and Acronyms Explained
- What Are My Chances of Winning My Disability Case?
These pages explain each step in the process and offer examples, templates, and tips to help you build a stronger claim.
Evidence Needed To Support Your Claim
The most important evidence comes from your treating doctors. We help you gather:
- Office visit notes and specialist reports
- Objective test results, such as MRIs, X rays, and lab findings
- Residual Functional Capacity forms completed by your providers
- Witness statements describing daily limitations
Not sure what you need? We can review your file and identify what is missing before your hearing.
RELATED POST: Evidence From Sources Who Are Not “Acceptable Medical Sources”
Should I Consult with a Disability Lawyer?
Yes. An experienced lawyer can improve your chance of success. We identify weak spots, gather persuasive evidence, and present your case clearly at each stage.
We represent clients across the United States and only get paid if you win benefits. There is no upfront cost to hire our firm. Fees are approved by the Social Security Administration.
Medical Conditions Covered By Social Security Disability
You can receive Social Security Disability benefits for any severe, medically determinable disease, condition, or impairment that limits your abilities to such an extent that you cannot work full-time consistently. Some severe conditions are included in the SSA’s listing of impairments.
We help clients with a wide range of disabling conditions. Some of the most common include:
- Musculoskeletal Disorders – Back pain, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, arthritis
- Neurological Disorders – Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, migraine headaches
- Cardiac Disorders – Heart disease, coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmia
- Respiratory Disorders – COPD, asthma, emphysema, pulmonary hypertension
- Digestive System Disorders – Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, liver disease, gastrointestinal bleeding
- Genitourinary Disorders – Chronic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, bladder disorders
- Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders – Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s disease, fibromyalgia
- Mental Health Disorders – Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
- Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders – Diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity
- Hematological Disorders – Anemia, sickle cell disease, bone marrow disorders
- Skin Disorders – Psoriasis, dermatitis, chronic skin infections, burns
- Cancer and Other Serious Conditions – Breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and other malignancies
You can a more detailed explanation of medical conditions covered by Social Security Disability to learn more about how specific diagnoses can impact your eligibility.
Get Help From a Pensacola Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you need help applying for or appealing a Social Security Disability claim, contact Ortiz Law Firm today. We handle cases nationwide from our office in Pensacola, Florida. Call (888) 321 8131 or complete the form below for a free case evaluation.
