Does FERS Have Special Disability Retirement Options?

Yes, the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) does have special disability retirement options for federal employees who become disabled and are unable to continue working in their current capacity. FERS provides disability retirement benefits to eligible employees who meet certain criteria. There are two main types of disability retirement under FERS.

Does FERS Have Special Disability Retirement options?

YES! FERS HAS DISABILITY OPTIONS FOR RETIREMENT

Two Main Types of Disability Retirement

Immediate Disability Retirement: This option is available to employees who have completed at least 18 months of federal civilian service and who are unable to perform their job duties due to a medical condition. To qualify, the medical condition must be expected to last at least one year. Immediate disability retirement provides an annuity that is computed in a manner similar to regular FERS retirement but uses the employee's actual service up to the date of disability.

Deferred Disability Retirement: If you have less than 18 months of federal service, you may still qualify for deferred disability retirement. This means that your application will be postponed until you have completed 18 months of service. Deferred disability retirement follows the same eligibility criteria and computation methods as immediate disability retirement.

It's important to note that the disability retirement process involves several steps, including medical evaluations and assessments by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The medical condition must be documented and supported by medical evidence. OPM reviews the medical evidence and determines whether the disability meets the eligibility requirements for FERS disability retirement.

If you believe you may be eligible for FERS disability retirement, it's recommended to contact your agency's human resources department and review the information provided by the Office of Personnel Management for detailed guidance and instructions on how to apply. Keep in mind that the above information is based on knowledge available at the time of its writing, there might have been changes or updates since that time. For the most current and accurate information, refer to official government resources or contact the appropriate authorities.

To learn more about how to apply for FERS Disability Retirement you can find helpful information located in this article entitled "How can you Apply for FERS Disability Retirement"

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR FERS DISABILITY RETIREMENT?

Calculating the FERS Disability Retirement

FERS disability retirement is calculated differently than regular retirement:

First 12 months:

• 60% of the employee’s high-3 average salary

• Minus 100% of any SSDI benefits

After the first year until age 62:

• 40% of the high-3 salary

• Minus 60% of any SSDI benefits

What Happens at age 62

At age 62, the disability benefit is recalculated as if the employee had worked until age 62, which can increase the pension.

Key Advantage

Unlike regular retirement, FERS disability retirement can be granted at any age as long as the employee meets the 18-month service requirement and medical criteria.

SPECIFIC GUIDANCE FOR APPLYING FOR SURVIVOR BENEFITS

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