If you are a federal employee and you have a medical condition that renders you unable to perform “useful and efficient” service in your position, you may be able to qualify for Federal Disability Retirement, and you may be wondering if you should pursue a claim. After all, disability benefits can be tremendously helpful from a financial perspective when you are unable to work and earn an income as you otherwise would. Let’s take a closer look together at what Federal Disability Retirement is, who might be eligible, and how benefits are pursued.
Who is Eligible for Benefits and What Conditions Qualify?
Federal Disability Retirement is a program administered for the benefit of federal workers who become unable to work as a result of a medical condition during the course of their employment. It is a form of early retirement that eventually transitions to a typical federal employee retirement by the age of 62.
To qualify for benefits, applicants must satisfy a few requirements, including:
- Enrollment in the Federal Employees Retirement System: An applicant must have been enrolled in FERS for at least 18 months as a full-time career employee before applying for benefits.
- Timely Application: Employees must submit their application either before leaving their federal job or within one year from the time they left.
- Lack of Accommodation: An employee must also be able to provide evidence that their particular department could not reasonably accommodate their disability or reassign the employee to a similar suitable position at the same grade or pay level.
- Sufficient Medical Evidence: In order to qualify for Federal Disability Retirement, an applicant must be able to show that they have a qualifying medical condition which has rendered them unable to perform their job duties for a period of at least twelve months.
This latter factor often raises many questions for employees who wonder how they know if their particular medical condition will qualify for benefits. That’s an understandable question to ask.
First of all, it’s important to keep in mind that both physical and mental conditions can qualify for Federal Disability Retirement, and the particular condition in question does not have to be caused by the employment. Qualifying conditions may include, but are not limited to, musculoskeletal conditions, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, respiratory illnesses, sensory impairments, mental health conditions, and cancers.
How Does Federal Retirement Disability Differ from Social Security Disability?
Those seeking Federal Retirement Disability often also apply for Social Security Disability. Although the two programs share similarities, they often have key differences.
One important distinction between Federal Disability Retirement and Social Security disability is that to qualify for Federal Disability Retirement, an applicant must have what is known as an “occupational disability.” This means that the disability prevents the employee from performing his or her exact job description. This is distinct from a total disability that would prevent an employee from working any job, anywhere, which is required to be approved for Social Security disability. As a result, some federal employees may qualify for Federal Disability Retirement, but not Social Security disability.
How Do You Apply for Disability Benefits?
Those who wish to apply for Federal Disability Retirement and believe they might be eligible must submit an application to the Office of Personnel Management, or OPM for short. This application will consist of personal information, employment information, and medical proof supporting your claim that your medical condition has rendered you unable to perform the essential functions of your job. OPM will then review the application and render a decision on eligibility.
Although this is the general process for applying for benefits, it is important to understand that the process can become complicated and confusing at times, as is the case with many legal matters. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure you’ve gathered all the medical proof you need to make a strong case and fully assert your claim to benefits. In order to overlook any necessary matters and to be certain that you put your best foot forward, you’ll want a legal team on your side that knows and understands the law. At Muse Disability, we’re here for you.
Muse Disability – Here For You
When you are struggling with a disability, you need to reserve your time and energy to focus on treating your condition and enjoying life with those you love. The last thing you need is legal worry and stress, wondering how you’ll pursue a claim, or if you’re fully asserting your rights. At Muse Disability, we understand that – and it’s why we’re passionate about helping our clients fight for the benefits they need and deserve. We know and understand every aspect of the law pertaining to disability benefits, and we’ll always pursue the best legal strategies on your behalf. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.