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.

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Disability Law Blog

Overcoming Long-Term Disability Claim Challenges For Self-Employed Individuals

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. …

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Schmill v. MetLife – Court Upholds Decision To Limit Benefits To 12 Months In Claim For Mental And Musculoskeletal Disorders

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, …

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Benefit Limitations In Long-Term Disability Claims For Neuromuscular Disorders

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 …

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Benefit Limitations In Long-Term Disability Claims For Soft Tissue Disorders

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 …

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How To Transition From Short To Long-Term Disability Benefits

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 …

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Navy Federal Long-Term Disability Insurance Claims

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 long-term disability (LTD) insurance benefits. These claims are typically administered by New York Life Group …

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Viso v. Federated – Plaintiff Failed To Provide Proof Of Disability

This case involves Viso, who filed a disability 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, but it …

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The Importance Of Long-Term Disability Insurance In The Oil And Energy Industry

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 …

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Vocational Experts At Social Security Disability Hearings [With Sample Questions]

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 …

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Geiger v. Zurich – Failure To Obtain Additional Vocational Evidence Not An Abuse Of Discretion

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 …

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