Table of Contents How to Get Your Claim File and Policy Contacting the Insurance Company or Employer Understanding Your Rights ERISA Claims Non-ERISA Claims Next Steps After Obtaining Your Claim File and Policy Discuss Your Claim with a Long-Term Disability Attorney at Ortiz Law Firm Navigating the complexities of a long-term disability denial can be overwhelming. After facing a denial, understanding how to request your claim file and policy is crucial. Reviewing your claim file is essential to gain insight into the reasons behind the denial and to explore potential avenues for appeal ..read more

In Easter v. Hartford Life & Accident Ins. Co., the plaintiff, Audrey M. Easter, a former Social Worker for Intermountain Healthcare, was insured under a disability insurance plan administered by Defendant Hartford. Under this plan, Defendant Hartford was the claims administrator responsible for determining benefits and the payor of those claims. ERISA governed the insurance plan. The plaintiff submitted a claim for disability benefits under the plan after she stopped working for Intermountain Healthcare. In connection with her claim for benefits, she submitted attending physician statemen ..read more

Table of Contents Understanding Social Security Disability Video Hearings Benefits of Video Hearings Process and Participants in Video Hearings Should I Agree to a Video Hearing for My Disability Hearing? Preparing for a Social Security Disability Video Hearing Gathering Necessary Documentation Understanding the Technology and Environment Practicing for the Hearing Tips for a Successful Social Security Disability Video Hearing Dress and Appearance Testifying Clearly and Concisely Effective Communication with the Administrative Law Judge Why You Might Not Want a Video Disability Heari ..read more

Table of Contents Understanding Date Last Insured (DLI) How the SSA Calculates Your DLI Examples of How Your DLI Can Affect Your Claim Was Your Claim Denied Because of Your Date Last Insured? Sources Understanding the Date Last Insured (DLI) is crucial when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The DLI serves as a cutoff point for individuals seeking SSDI benefits. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it significant? Understanding Date Last Insured (DLI) The Date Last Insured represents the last date a person is eligible to receive SSDI benefits. If you file your ..read more

Table of Contents Seven of Your Legal Rights Concerning Your Claim for Long-Term Disability You Have the Right to Buy an Individual Policy Directly from an Insurance Broker You Have the Right to Submit Your Medical Records You Have the Right to Seek Medical Treatment from Any Doctor You Prefer You Have the Right to a Copy of Your LTD Policy and Plan You Have the Right to a Copy of the Insurance Company’s Complete Claim File You Have the Right (If Not The Duty) to Appeal Your Long-Term Disability Denial You Have the Right to Hire Any Attorney You Choose to Represent You Schedule a Free Case ..read more

Table of Contents Understanding the Role of Medical Experts at Social Security Disability Hearings Preparing for Social Security Disability Hearings Involving Medical Experts Ortiz Law Firm Can Represent You at Your Social Security Disability Hearing FAQ: Medical Experts at Social Security Disability Hearings Having a medical expert (ME) at your Social Security disability hearing can significantly impact the outcome of your case. These professionals are vital in providing expert testimony and medical evidence to support your disability claim. Medical experts bring a wealth of knowledge and ..read more

Table of Contents Claim History The Policy The Issues The Judge’s Decision The case of Mucciacciaro v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. This legal battle centers around Sandra Mucciacciaro, the Plaintiff, and Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company, the Defendant. The legal dispute pertains to a claim for long-term disability benefits, with the Plaintiff and the Defendant filing cross-motions for summary judgment. ERISA governs the disability plan. Claim History Dimensional Dental Holdings, LLC ..read more

Table of Contents Chronic Pain Fibromyalgia Mental Health Conditions Migraine Headaches Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) How Can I Qualify with a Disability That Is Hard to Prove? Medical Documentation is Key Consult with Specialists Describe Your Symptoms Effectively Be Persistent and Patient Seek Legal Assistance If Needed Get Help with Your Disability Claim Navigating a disability claim can be a daunting journey, especially for those grappling with disabilities that are hard to prove. Conditions involving chronic pain and fatigue ..read more

Table of Contents Tips for Taking a Vacation While on Disability Factors to Consider Before Planning a Vacation Strategies for Balancing Rest and Recovery with Vacation Activities Try Not to Push the Limits of Your Disability Follow Your Doctor’s Advice Be Careful Sharing Your Vacation on Social Media Contact Ortiz Law Firm for Help with Your Claim Have you ever wondered if you can take a vacation while on disability benefits? It’s a common question among claimants receiving Social Security Disability or long-term disability benefits. Enjoying some time away may seem appealing, but it ca ..read more

The case involves Lisa Leif suing Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company under ERISA, claiming wrongful denial of long-term disability (LTD) benefits. W.B. Mason Company, Inc. employed Ms. Leif as a Collection Representative. Leif suffers from atherosclerotic heart disease, refractory angina, coronary spasms, and COPD. As she was no longer able to work due to these medical conditions, she submitted an LTD claim. During the claim review, Hartford obtained an occupational analysis from Andrew Berlin, a vocational rehabilitation clinical case manager, and an independent medical review from ..read more