Client Testimonials
I am a licensed professional with extensive experience in labor and employment law; however, when faced with health issues that required an application for my own disability retirement from federal service, I was intimidated and concerned I myself wouldn't be able to navigate the complex application process successfully. My concerns were immediately allayed when I retained Scott. His expertise, professionalism, genuine care and concern, and discretion are, in my experience, unequaled. I am grateful for his work on my behalf and for submitting an application that was quickly approved by OPM. He earned my trust, confidence, and respect...and has my strongest possible recommendation.
John September 10, 2020
Scott did an amazing job from the very beginning through the whole process. I don't believe I would have been able to conquer the very challenging paperwork and demands of completing the FERS disability without him. I highly recommend him! Thanks Scott!
Joseph July 27, 2020
Scott’s invaluable expertise and experience helped me navigate the extremely complicated and non-intuitive process of filing for Federal disability retirement. Without his help, I would not have prevailed. His professionalism, extensive knowledge and strong technical writing skills were critical for my success. I could never thank him enough. Don’t try to go it alone!
Stephanie April 13, 2020
Scott was always available when I needed him, even on short notice when I found out the agency tried to sabotage my application. He is very articulate and knows the exact wording needed for a successful application. Scott gave a lot of his time, and I’m glad I was able to rely on him.
Justin April 10, 2020
Scott is very professional and knows all of the answers to your questions! I started the process in February of this year and received my approval letter in August 2019.
Reginald September 23, 2019
In the depths of my despair, Scott lifted me up and provided hope. It was wonderful to find someone that I could rely on to help me during the most stressful time of my life.
One of the many helpful aspects was how Scott parsed and parceled out the FDR application. The application seemed completely overwhelming when I first saw it. Scott broke it down and had me complete it in manageable chunks, day by day. Pacing (work, activities, etc.) was something that I learned simultaneously on my own as a coping strategy.
My chronic digestive issues and related pain/inflammation leave me exhausted. With Scott's assistance, I was able to wrangle up all of the information that I needed. Scott also gave me soft-skill tips on how to communicate effectively with doctors and supervisors.
Jacob August 26, 2019
When my health became so disruptive that I was no longer able to perform my job, I knew I didn’t have a choice but to file for FERS disability retirement. I am normally a do it yourself type of person, but due to my lack of knowledge about the paperwork and process, I felt I would be best served by hiring Scott. After our initial conversation, I felt very comfortable that I had made the right choice. Scott guided me through the process with experience and advice that was really encouraging to me. His expertise on matters of disability retirement far exceeds any information I received from other sources I encountered throughout the whole process. I can not say enough good things about how great of a job he did and how nice it was working with him. From the time we began until notification of OPM approval was approximately three months. This included waiting a month for my agency to take care of my military buy back paperwork. Thank you, Scott for doing such a terrific job!
Robert June 28, 2019
I am writing this today to express my sincere appreciation for all of the assistance, and most of all, kindness during one of the most difficult times of my life. Although Scott and I have never personally met, he made me feel very comfortable and made the process of seeking FERS disability not so overwhelming. Through every step of the process Scott was there to guide me through the daunting amount of paperwork. He expertly guided me on how to obtain and prepare all of the necessary paperwork to be successful in seeking relief through OPM. Although the entire process took about 8 months from the beginning of the process until final approval, the actual disability packet was approved in less than 6 weeks after being submitted to OPM. I believe the approval was so fast because Scott ensured I submitted a thorough and well-organized packet, which made it clear to OPM that there was a direct nexus between my disabilities and my inability to perform specific aspects of my job. This is the key to a successful application. I highly recommend Scott to anyone seeking FERS disability retirement.
Victoria June 20, 2019
I have personally referred some of my former VA federal government colleagues to Dr. Scott Santarelli - he is simply extraordinary. I was online researching for a FERS Disability Retirement Expert Specialist when I stumbled on Dr. Santarelli's name.
I can genuinely tell you I definitely found an expert in Scott; he is a phenomenal, professional expert in FERS Disability Retirement. Dr. Santarelli has truly guided, assisted and helped me with my FDR, and his fees are reasonable.
Upon me contacting Dr. Santarelli, I was at a complete loss with OPM due to my 2nd reconsideration being denied, and I had to appeal the OPM decision through the Merit System Protection Board (MSPB). Upon receiving Dr. Santarelli's assistance, I was able to submit supporting evidence and medical records in the correct format, which was very helpful.
I just recently received very good news from the MSPB Administrative Judge via letter stating that OPM filed a motion to the MSPB to dismiss my appeal on the basis that, upon review of evidence and medical documents submitted with my appeal, it was rescinding its reconsideration decision and granting my application for disability retirement. Basically, OPM has decided to grant me my FDR; for this I am humbled and grateful.
I truly thank Dr. Scott Santarelli for his professionalism, guidance and assistance.
Maria March 29, 2019
Scott Santarelli was helpful throughout this overwhelming process. He encouraged me when obstacles left me feeling hopeless. Despite the lack of cooperation from my former employer, he was strategic, patient, knowledgeable and respectful. I had no doubt at any point that I was in good hands. I highly recommend Scott Santarelli for FERS Disability cases. I'm
truly grateful for the effort he put into my case, and for the peace of mind I
now have.Allison March 12, 2019
Scott Santarelli was a real pleasure to work with. He was thorough, knowledgeable, personable, and he kept me informed throughout the entire process, and made sure my needs were addressed all along the way. While I can say that nobody wants to go through this process, it was great having Scott in my corner! I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone who needs to apply for FERS Disability. I truly cannot say enough good things about him.
Earl June 11, 2018
Scott assisted me with my FERS case on two occasions. First in 2012, and then again in 2016. Scott was both professional and kind. From the start, he makes you feel at ease with your situation. Scott was able to resolve both of my FERS issues in a timely and professional manner. I would not only recommend his services to friends and family but I would also happily use his services again if needed.
Barry December 18, 2017
Mr. Santarelli, I just want to show my gratitude by saying thank you for doing a wonderful job on my case. Could not have gotten my retirement disability case approved on the first try without your loyalty and hard work – thank you again.
Tina November 18, 2016
Excellent communicator, great listener and an absolute professional. He promptly returns calls and correspondence and is very reliable! He guided me through the FERS process when I could no longer do my Federal job. The process is nerve wracking, and very scary. It seemed everyone online was having that same problem. He was very connected with my fears and challenges and gave me advice on how to deal with my Agency, my supervisors, Human Resources, as well as my doctors. In the end, I got approved!!! A breath of fresh air finding honest and direct people who are experts. This guy is the real deal. His services are impeccable and I’m a satisfied customer!!!
Eric October 10, 2015
I truly enjoyed working with Scott Santarelli on my FERS Disability! I knew right from the start that Scott would assist me every step of the way. He was ALWAYS available via email or phone to answer any or all of my questions. He made this process go extremely smoothly and broke everything down in parts so it didn't seem overwhelming. I would HIGHLY recommend working with Scott on FERS Disability. I'm truly grateful for my outcome and everything he did for me.
Ann October 6, 2015
Scott is the most professional and knowledgeable person I know when it comes to FERS Disability Retirement. He is very reliable and explains things so that anyone can understand them. The FERS Disability Retirement system is a rat maze, which not even my union representative could explain to me. Scott is the only person I would rely on to guide me through this process. He is a hard worker and worked relentlessly on my case. If he doesn’t know the answer to your question, he finds out and gets the answers you need in a timely manner. He is truly the professional that you want working for you.
Tammy May 15, 2015
I was applying for federal disability retirement and was not getting any cooperation from my employer. I needed legal help to complete my claim. I initially talked to Scott on the phone. He patiently listened to my story and asked questions. There was no rush. He told me what he needed from me and quickly took charge of my case. He drafted letters, filed documents and always met deadlines. I always had access to Scott via phone or text, and he always let me know when he would be unavailable days in advance.
What I mostly appreciated about Scott was when I got frustrated with the case, he assured me things would be alright. He was correct. I received my full retirement plus back pay. I don’t think I could have jumped through all the hoops the Federal Government put in my way without Scott’s assistance.
John February 26, 2015
I had to apply for disability due to my bilateral hearing loss, which was causing me a great deal of distress, resulting in anxiety and depressive symptoms. Having Scott Santarelli assist me with all of my questions, the paperwork, and continuously keeping in contact with my place of employment, supervisors, medical personnel (including my primary medical physician, audiologist, and psychiatrist) was a tremendous relief. Even though I have never personally met Scott, I felt comfortable with him guiding me throughout the whole disability process. Scott, I appreciate everything you have done for me. You are truly a gem. Thank you!
Terry November 18, 2014
Your services were much needed navigating an arcane system. With your help, my case was approved on the first try. You made the process a lot more manageable due to your expertise. The fact you accommodated me and my financial situation with a payment plan allowed me to maintain some sanity through this stressful situation. Thanks for being very professional and approachable during the process.
Gidonny October 27, 2014
Scott helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. I made the decision to file for FERS Disability, and it terrified me on many levels. I called Scott, and though my fears were still there, I knew he would handle my journey in the best possible way. He explained my options, and I decided to choose the whole package. I was afraid I would not be able to afford it. When he told me the price, I could not believe that he could assist me up this mountain for such a reasonable price. Scott did everything he said he would, and more. He helped me with every single step. He treated me with respect, politeness, care, and a confidence that always reassured me. When I was awarded my full disability, I gave all the credit to Scott. I followed his lead and trusted him. He is truly the best!
Susan January 13, 2014