Eligibility Requirements for Federal Disability Retirement
If you are a federal civil servant, developing an illness or injury that hinders your work performance can cause significant worries about your financial future. However, you might be relieved to hear that federal employees who have suffered injuries or ailments preventing them from performing work functions may be eligible to receive benefits through the Federal Disability Retirement program. Yet many civil servants feel confused about whether they qualify for assistance. Understanding the requirements can help you determine your options to secure your benefits.
What Is Federal Disability Retirement?
Federal Disability Retirement is a program that provides income replacement for federal employees who can no longer work due to a medical condition. It allows eligible federal workers who have become disabled to retire and receive a portion of their earned retirement benefits before the minimum retirement age.
The Federal Disability Retirement program is under the purview of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). If approved for disability retirement, the federal employee will receive annuity payments based on their years of federal service and salary. The annuity payments aim to provide income stability during the period of disability.
Who Is Eligible for Federal Disability Retirement?
To be eligible for Federal Disability Retirement, a civil servant must meet the following requirements:
- The employee must have worked in a position subject to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) for at least 18 months.
- A medical professional must expect the disability to last at least one year.
- The federal agency must certify that it cannot accommodate the disabling medical condition. The Agency Certification of Reassignment and Accommodation Efforts manages this certification.
- The federal employee must obtain documentation from their physician stating that they have a medical condition preventing them from performing the essential duties of their position.
- The employee must apply before their separation from service or within the year following.
- The employee must apply for Social Security disability benefits.
What Kinds of Medical Conditions Qualify?
A broad range of physical and mental health conditions can potentially qualify for Federal Disability Retirement benefits. Some examples include:
- Cardiovascular or circulatory conditions
- Neurological disorders
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD
- Cognitive impairments
- Cancer
- Respiratory illnesses
- Digestive disorders
- Chronic pain conditions
- Autoimmune diseases
The severity of the medical condition and the impact on the federal employee’s capacity to work will undergo an evaluation to determine eligibility. Crucially, the injury or illness does not need to have occurred on the job. Pre-existing conditions may qualify if they have recently worsened.
What Considerations Are There for Special Provisions Employees?
Federal employees in certain “special provisions” positions have some specific considerations for Federal Disability Retirement. These positions include:
- Law enforcement officers
- Air traffic controllers
- Firefighters
- Nuclear materials couriers
People in these professions should understand that they may qualify for Federal Disability Retirement even if they have not met typical length of service requirements. Furthermore, some special provisions employees may be considered unfit for duty if they are taking antidepressants or antipsychotics for any length of time. Consulting with an attorney knowledgeable in Federal Disability Retirement for special provisions employees is advisable.
Contact Our Federal Disability Retirement Lawyers Today
Federal Disability Retirement can be a relief for injured or ill civil servants who are unsure about their financial futures. Yet the process of determining how to qualify can feel daunting. Federal Disability Retirement law firms like The Vaughn Law Firm can help you take the necessary steps to feel secure. Our lawyers are passionate about fighting for the rights of federal employees in Georgia and Washington, D.C., and we are ready to get to work for you. Contact one of our experienced attorneys today at 877-615-9495 for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
