OPM FERS DISABILITY RETIREMENT

 The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the federal agency responsible for managing the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).  Federal employees that are are part of FERS may be eligible for a disability retirement.  The key components of a FERS disability retirement are: you receive monthly annuity payments, you receive additional creditable years of service while receiving a disability retirement annuity, you receive continued health coverage and life insurance, and you can continue to work in the private sector (up to 80% of your previous federal salary). 

Our experienced representatives and case managers are here to assist you in obtaining your well deserved FERS disability retirement.  We represent you from application all the way to hearing at the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), if necessary.

What are the requirements for FERS disability retirement?  The eligibility requirements are listed below:

 Once a Federal Employee under the Federal Employees Retirement System has accumulated a minimum of 18 months of service as a full-time career employee they are eligible for a FERS disability retirement. 

The definition of a disability for purposes of a FERS disability retirement is "Any medical condition that inhibits an employee from continuing to complete at least one of the major functions of their current position."

The qualifying disability must be supported by medical evidence from a doctor supporting your claim that you are unable to perform at least one of the major functions of your current position due to your disability for a period of at least 12 months.   The disability does not need to be as a result of an on the job related injury.

In order to qualify for a FERS disability retirement you must be able to provide to OPM that you have an occupational disability.  This means is must be a disability that prevents you from performing your job.   For example, if you a federal law enforcement officer and you have a disability that prevents you from running to apprehend a subject, you would have an occupational injury that qualifies. 

What kind of disabilities qualify for FERS disability retirement?  Physical and mental conditions can qualify.  Some of the common conditions are: stroke or heart attack, degenerative diseases, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries, physical tears of ligaments and tendons, major depressive disorder, bipolar disease, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In order to qualify for a FERS disability retirement, you Agency must certify that is is unable to accommodate you in your current position or reassign you to another position.  In order for the Agency to reassign you it must be to a vacant position that you qualify for, at the same pay and grade level of your current position, and within your local commuting area.   The reassignment position must also be able to accommodate your medical restrictions. 

You must apply before your separation from federal service or within one year after your separation.  

You must apply for Social Security Disability benefits.  However, if you are denied social security disability benefits it does not negatively affect your eligibility for FERS disability retirement. 

Our representatives will represent you through all three stages of the FERS Disability Retirement Process.

Stage 1:  Initial Review by OPM (the initial application process)

Stage 2: Reconsideration (when an initial application is denied)

Stage 3:  Merit Systems Protection Board (after a reconsideration is denied the application may appeal to the MSPB)

The appeal process is complex and difficult.  It is essential to have the assistance of a knowledgeable and experienced representative to represent you through this process. 

If we decide to take your case, we offer a MONEY-BACK PROMISE.  If after all stages you don't get approved for your FERS Disability Retirement we will return 100% of the fees you paid.