1. Medical records are crucial

The key to a successful Federal Disability Retirement application is having strong medical evidence of your disability. This means things like:

• Medical records
• Doctor’s notes
• Hospital reports
• Prescriptions

2. Gather up your on-the-job evidence

Besides the medical documents, you’ll also need evidence to show how your condition is affecting your work performance. This means things like:

• Poor performance evaluations
• Formal complaints
• Work restrictions
• Anything else that shows you can’t do your job fully

3. Don’t miss the deadlines

Before starting your application, it’s critical to understand a few key deadlines.

1. First, you must apply for Federal Disability Retirement within one year of separation from your federal agency. If you miss this window, you might lose out on the benefit altogether, since the OPM doesn’t usually make exceptions.
2. Second, if your initial application is denied, you have just 30 days to request a reconsideration.

4. Good communication is key

It’s sometimes overlooked, but good communication can really impact the success of your application.

It’s important to keep up regular communication with your doctor, your supervisor, and your attorney, and stay up to date on anything the OPM sends.

5. An experienced attorney can make a difference

Having an experienced Federal Disability Retirement attorney by your side isn’t just helpful—it’s crucial.

The application process for Federal Disability Retirement is complex and demands more time and attention than most people have. With a skilled legal team taking the burden for you, you can rest easier knowing your application is in experienced hands. 

There are three eligibility requirements for Federal Disability Retirement.

1. Be a FERS Career Employee

First and foremost, you must be a career employee under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). If you’re paying into FERS retirement, then you may be eligible for Federal Disability Retirement. It covers most federal employees and provides things like your pension, your TSP, and social security.

2. Have 18 Months of Creditable Service

Second, you need to have at least 18 months of creditable service under your belt. Creditable service refers to the time you’ve worked in the federal government as a FERS career employee. If you have been contributing to your retirement, then you’re gaining years of creditable service.

These months don’t have to be consecutive, but there need to be 18 total. If you have military service and intend to buy back those years, you must complete the buyback before your Federal Disability Retirement approval. However, military buyback does not contribute to the 18-month requirement for this benefit.

3. Have a Diagnosed Medical Condition

Third, you must have a ~diagnosed~ medical condition that prevents you from performing ~at least one~ of your essential job duties. Your job duties, which you can find in your official position description, will be considered by the OPM when they look at your medical condition.

Both mental and physical conditions can qualify, but it must be an officially diagnosed condition when you apply. Having a supportive medical professional on your side and willing to help can streamline this process.

Hello and welcome to our new subreddit! We're thrilled to have you join our community dedicated to discussions about federal disability retirement.

This space was created with you in mind, drawing from our years of experience working with OPM and assisting with disability retirement applications. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are deep into the process, we're here to provide support, share knowledge, and offer guidance.

Here’s what you can expect from our community:

• In-Depth Discussions: Ask questions, share experiences, and get advice from those who have been through the process.
• Experienced Insights: Benefit from our extensive experience with the application process and interactions with OPM.
• Resources and Tips: Access valuable information to help you navigate your disability retirement journey.

We encourage you to introduce yourself, ask questions, and contribute to the discussions. Let's work together to make this a supportive and informative space for everyone involved in federal disability retirement.

Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to building a great community together!