Webinar | Qualifying Disabilities for Federal Disability Retirement

As a Federal Employee, understanding your rights to Federal Disability Retirement can be crucial to your quality of life long-term. In this webinar, we will discuss which disabilities qualify for Federal Disability Retirement. Whether you were injured on the job or have a non-work-related disability you could be approved for this great long-term benefit.
Schedule a FREE consultation: bit.ly/federalhelp
Read the article: www.federaldisability.com/blo...
Learn more about Federal Disability Retirement: www.federaldisability.com/leg...
⏱ Timestamps ⏱
3:15 Understanding Federal Disability Retirement
3:19 Federal Disability Retirement Benefits
5:10 Working in the Private Sector
8:42 Qualifying for Federal Disability Retirement
9:55 Defining Disability
11:35 Understanding the Types of Disabilities
17:10 Situational Disability
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[@LadyBNatural]

I cannot wait to start this process. I am so thankful that I found a team that is actually on my side for a change. I feel so relieved that I may not have to continue to suffer on a job that’s making my conditions worse and still keep my federal benefits that I’ve worked so hard for. Thank you in advance to the Harris Federal Employee Law Firm.

[@DisabilityRetirement]

We are honored to be able to provide federal employees like you the security you deserve. We wish you the best of luck on your case!

[@jcost0099]

I am medical provider that works with injured federal workers using OWCP. I would like to recommend this video for my patients seeking OPM disability retirement information that we deem not fit for full duty at their hired position.

[@DisabilityRetirement]

We love to hear that! You are more than welcome to share this video with anyone you think may benefit from OPM Disability Retirement!

[@reneepainter9700]

Thank You so much for this Great Informative Webinar!!🤗

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Thank you for your comment! We are happy to hear it was helpful :)

[@MKPhungTran62]

Thank you

[@maferr6404]

Request clarification: OPM Pamphlet says, "You reach the 80% earnings limit (or are "restored to earning capacity) if, in any calendar year, your income from wages and self-employment is at least 80% of the current rate of basic pay for the position from which you retired". This would seem to indicate that your total earnings, which would include the retirement benefit can't exceed the previous salary. However, the webinar seems to suggest that you can earn this 80% of your previous salary in addition to the retirement benefit. Which one is correct?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Your Federal Disability Retirement annuity will not count as "earned income" towards this income limit. You can earn the 80% on top of your annuity payments!

[@CarlosRodriguez-ox3bg]

Excellent presentation. At what stage do you hire a law firm?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Thank you, Carlos! We recommend finding representation a soon as possible. The reason is, it is important to get your application right from the beginning. Your options to revise become limited after you submit your initial contract. We'd be happy to talk to you about it more. Give us a call... 877 226-2723

[@benchang1022]

I’m a 100% disabled vet, GS 12. Working is too much. Too much pain. Do you have to apply for SSDI?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Hi! I'm sorry you're going through so much pain. We know not being able to work can cause a lot of stress too, but just know that you're not alone. Yes, you would still have to apply for SSDI. It's just a part of the Federal Disability Retirement application process. It sounds like you would likely be approved for both though, which would end up netting you more income in the long run. Additionally, if you are on Veteran's Admin Disability then it would not offset with either of the SSDI or FDR benefits, which is significant. I know this isn't the future you had necessarily hoped for, but you do have options available to provide you with some solid income through retirement. Please, let us know if we can help. We wish you the best of luck!

[@ruthless6834]

I’m a federal employee and also a Reservist. While on deployment I suffered from a major car accident and injured my back pretty seriously . I had surgery but still suffering from pain when standing for long periods of time. At this time I’m receiving physical therapy. My doctor suggested me because of the type of injury and my age to not stand for long periods of time. My federal job requires to stand all the time. Is it ok to file for medical disability? Thanks

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Hi Ruth! We're sorry to hear that your are suffering from so much pain. From what you described, Federal Disability Retirement could be a great option for you. Give our office a call and schedule a FREE consultation. We would be happy to walk you through all of your options. 877-226-2723

[@msotolopez]

Could any part of my FERs disability be effected by my rental income property ?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question! Rental income from a property that you manage could potentially count as earned income towards your 80% income cap. It's important to talk to your CPA or financial advisor to ensure you make the right financial decision for your situation. To learn more about the 80% income cap click here www.federaldisability.com/can-you-work-while-on-federal-disability-retirement/.

[@cararadford11]

What question(s) do you ask your physician to complete the SF-3112?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Hi CaraVan - Thanks for the question! It really depends on the medical condition and the history with the doctor. This is something we help our clients with everyday and work directly with their doctors to get the proper medical evidence to build a strong case. While we can't get into specifics here, we would be happy to discuss your options with you. Give us a call and setup a FREE consultation! Thanks!

[@dickyoung456]

8:25 If approved for FERS disability, and could maintain health and life insurance with TSA, do I still still have to pay my portion premium?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Hi Richard, this is a great question that we get a lot. Yes, you would still be obligated to pay your portion of the premium. Thanks for the question!

[@dickyoung456]

@@DisabilityRetirement If approved for FERS disability, would I get both SSDI and FERS and pension from Thrift savings as well? If not (I'm only 51 years old) Do I have to wait until 59.5 or 62 or what ever retirement age? Thanks

[@DisabilityRetirement]

@@dickyoung456, when applying for Federal Disability Retirement, you must also apply for SSDI at the same time. However, you do not have to be approved for SSDI to receive Federal Disability Retirement. Once on Federal Disability Retirement, that benefit will last until age 62 where it will then convert to your regular retirement. If you are approved for both SSDI and Federal Disability Retirement, they will offset. As far as the TSP goes, the standard limitations apply. You cannot withdraw without penalty until after age 59.5. We hope this adequately answers your question!

[@weatherman8123]

What happens to my Sick and Annual Leave on the books?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question! Any annual leave, credit hour and comp time balance will be paid to you in a lump-sum after you are separated. Generally, the lump-sum payment will equal the pay you would have received if you had remained employed through the leave. You will not receive any compensation for sick leave unless you return to federal service, in which case it may be credited back to you.

[@bevp9950]

What if you are a veteran federal employee, and you only have VA doctors (who do not like to get involved with disability cases). This is the problem I have ran into. Even though my medical records substantiate my claims.

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Hi Bev, great question! We recommend in that scenario that you treat with a private provider. There are some directives that state the VA must provide an opinion on your work capacity, but their cooperation can still vary. Please, give us a call if you have any questions! 877-226-2723

[@15thward33]

have you received a straight forward answer on this question? I'm in the same boat and it seems they are beating around the bush on that question.. they don't seem to understand the dynamics of being a veteran federal employee and all our doctors are VA, DOD, or active duty military who don't like to get involved. Shit as a GS7 and the only provider in the family i dont have the money to seek outside help and to account for 17 years worth of medical history and records. Bad enough PCM get switch like draws mostly with out us knowing and we have to explain all that history every time we get new doctors

[@bevp9950]

@@15thward33 Absolutely! I definitely understand. I don't have a family to care for but I have a house and all the responsibilities that go along with that. I have had to pull out of my savings account to try and seek help elsewhere, but like you say the extensive length of our medical records is impossible to transport over to another medical facility. It's like starting all over again. I have not received a definitive answer to that question unfortunately. As a last resort I've recently reached out to my local congressman and senator for assistance. I don't know what they're able to do, if anything. But it's all I have at this point! Blessings on your journey.

[@vikki105]

If you have to apply for SSDI prior to applying for FED disability and get approved for SSDI, their rule is that you cannot make over $13,000+ a year. So if a person is then approved for FED disability on top of SSDI then how can they make up to 80% of their high 3 in the private sector if SSDI bars them from making over $13,000?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question, if you are approved for SSDI that becomes your primary benefit and you must say under the substantial gainful activity limit set by the SSA. The 80% income cap for Federal Disability Retirement is only relevant if you are not approved for SSDI. The combination of these two benefits can provide you with financial security as clients who are approved for SSDI are typically not able to continue working.

[@15thward33]

How do you all handle and obtain medical records if all records was kept on based and with the VA

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question! Our team gathers medical documents for our clients by streamlining communication between our team and the doctors. Our proven process of gathering medical documents can prove useful when working with doctors at the VA. To learn how our team can help you in your case, give our office a call at 877-226-2723

[@15thward33]

last question if if PCM and all doctors are DOD affiliated or active duty military. How would you you be able to handle the in the instance they are hesitant to complete or willing to write a statement for FERS package because they dont want to get involved with disabilities cases? I DONT have money like that to seek an outside doctor to try to explain and account for 17 years worth of medical history and records

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question! One of the most important aspects of applying for Federal Disability Retirement is having support from your doctors. We know situations like that are very common and can be frustrating when trying to build an application. We recommend that you give our office a call at 877-226-2723 to discuss your case in further detail to see how we can help you.

[@robertmines241]

I have been approved but now as we are wrapping up they are say I qualify for FERS or CSRS. I started asl a law enforcement officer in 1999 and my separation date was 2021. I am still on OWCP comp pay. Benefits and issues with either.

[@DisabilityRetirement]

You must apply for Federal Disability Retirement within one year of separation from your agency. If you separated in 2021, you are outside of that requirement. OWCP typically pays more money in the short term as Federal Disability Retirement is more of a long term benefit. If you have been receiving OWCP and are eligible for a regular retirement, you may be in the best position for your financial future.

[@tracycoultas7548]

good evening: i am facing reassignment as last resort. if i decline my reassignment is disability retirement automatic? i have 22 years federal service

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Great question! A valid reassignment to the OPM is an existing, vacant position, at the same pay and grade level, within your commuting area, that you are qualified for and medically able to perform. If the position does not meet these criteria, you can decline it without negatively impacting your disability retirement case. However, if you decline a valid reassignment, you will no longer be eligible for Federal Disability Retirement. Give our office a call at 877-226-2723 to learn about all of your options!

[@ronilomaganis7527]

I’m 58 years old I feel I cannot make it to retirement age I have chronic pain to my feet and I’m rated 90% VA. Can I collect disability SSDI and work disability at the same time?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Ronila, first off, we're very sorry to hear you are dealing with chronic pain and going through a difficult time. We wish you all the best. This is a great question! You can collect many of these benefits at the same time, in most cases they offset to some extent, if not fully. For example you cannot be on Federal Disability Retirement and OWCP Federal Workers' Comp Wage Loss at the same time, however you could be on Federal Disability Retirement and receive an OWCP schedule award. In the case of Federal Disability Retirement and VA Disability, you can receive 100% of both at the same time. These types of benefit interactions (offsets) can be confusing and can really impact how much money you can receive. We suggest scheduling a FREE consultation with our office and we can outline your options and the best course of action. Thanks for the question!

[@newhorizon1355]

Ron r u at 90 just for feet I was told 30 was highest, and that's combined for both?

[@keertip6771]

Hello, sorry, I am 67 years old and currently on FMLA. I have both physical and mental conditions to be eligible for the disability. Am I eligible to get disability based on my age?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Age 62 is the regular retirement age for the federal government and applying for Federal Disability Retirement after this point would result in you receiving a regular retirement annuity.

[@beachesandmore]

Does this still apply that you can work & make up to 80% of your base pay while on federal disability retirement...... Since they now require you to apply for social security before even requesting disability retirement from HR\OPM. Because doesn't social security have a different requirement for still working while receiving social security during your retirement disability?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

If you are approved for SSDI as well as Federal Disability Retirement, you will have to abide by the SSA's rules for earning an income. The SSA sets an earning limit that you must stay within, as well as sticking to your medical restrictions. If you are approved for SSDI, you are typically unable to continue working, which is why receiving these two benefits together provides you with the most money.

[@lfh1973]

I’m a law enforcement officer and have had three dominant arm shoulder scopes and one non dominant arm shoulder scope. I’m 50 and have 18 years of service. Am I a good candidate for disability? I don’t know how qualified I am to deal with combative subjects anymore after 4 surgeries.

[@DisabilityRetirement]

If your condition is affecting your ability to complete all of the essential functions of your job, then you could potentially qualify for Federal Disability Retirement! There are a lot of eligibility and qualification requirements that go into this benefit, and since each case is different, I would suggest calling our office at 877-226-2723 to set up a free consultation. We would be happy to walk you through your options!

[@anantran5346]

I’d like to know how much you collect the fee after the case is approved?​@@DisabilityRetirement

[@opsecclassified6469]

​@@anantran5346it's well worth the fee!

[@keertip6771]

Hello, I am 76 years old and disabled, retiring soon. My disability started about 10 years ago and getting worst since then due to chronic conditions. I did not know anything about disability and in 2012, when I was sick and was on leave, I asked my office admin and she told me that Federal employees dont get that. Can I qualify to get disability, if I am on FMLA now?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

It sounds like you would be eligible for a regular retirement! If you have reached your minimum retirement age, you are no longer eligible for Federal Disability Retirement.

[@febeng5698]

How long do you have to be working at USPS to qualify for this

[@DisabilityRetirement]

You must have 18 months of creditable service as a FERS employee to qualify!

[@febeng5698]

@@DisabilityRetirement thank you for all the valuable info. We are definitely not informed and aware of all our benefits. I think I might qualify for this so I’ll be contacting you for that consultation soon.

[@sidneyperry7102]

Currently a federal employee and want to file disability due to congestive heart failure. My heart function is under 30 percent. I have not been back to work since being awarded SSDI. I am also 100 percent service-connected through the VA. Do I have to ask for a permanent accommodation first or can I just retire?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

This may be a unique case since you are already approved for SSDI which can help with Federal Disability Retirement. Typically, if you are separated prior to applying for Federal Disability Retirement, you would have to prove that there was no accommodation that would allow you to continue to work. Give our office a call at 877-226-2723 so we can guide you in the best direction for your specific case!

[@sidneyperry7102]

I actually am still employed I just haven't been back to work.

[@earllittle6591]

Question(s): I'm currently on federal workers comp. Injuries my back on the job( which is one of my va disabilities & im 100% p&t). My disabilities retirement app has just been sent to OPM. If I get approved? Do I have to come off of workers comp? And take disability retirement & ssdi? 🤔 Thanks in advance......

[@DisabilityRetirement]

You do not have to take disability retirement immediately. You can continue to stay on workers comp until that runs out and then you can transition into disability retirement. If you are approved to SSDI however, that would offset slightly with your OWCP.

[@earllittle6591]

@DisabilityRetirement so I don't have to take disability retirement immediately? But if I get approved for ssdi(cause it was a requirement to apply for disability retirement)...I would be forced to take ssdi & it would offset my workers comp?🤔🤔(if im understanding that correctly) And isn't ssdi taxed🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Correct, you do not have to take disability retirement immediately but you do have to take SSDI. Your SSDI isn't taxed until your income reaches $25,000 or $32,000 based on your filing status. If you are receiving both OWCP and SSDI, you cannot receive more than 80% of your pre-disability salary. Check out this benefit interaction webinar- kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqa9q6yKi5mlp6Msi=nXVtFqf5PsWCIBCL&t=731

[@patgallant260]

Does seniors qualify for this benefit

[@DisabilityRetirement]

If you are eligible for a regular retirement, it would not be beneficial to apply for a Federal Disability Retirement.

[@user-tp5mf6ru5o]

If i am turning 70. Can i still get disability?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Unfortunately, if you are over age 62, you would qualify for a regular retirement and Federal Disability Retirement would not be beneficial.

[@patgallant260]

My husband is 77

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Age 62 is the regular retirement age for the federal government and applying for Federal Disability Retirement after this point would result in them receiving a regular retirement annuity.

[@sonyastokes1364]

What happens after 62

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Once you turn 62 your Federal Disability Retirement will automatically transition into your regular FERS retirement with no further action needed!

[@opsecclassified6469]

​@@DisabilityRetirementwhat about any outstanding sick leave you may have after being on disability retirement and when you eventually hit 62. Would that sick time accurred at that point be converted to time in service as it would if you did not previously take a disability retirement and retired normally at age 62?

[@patgallant260]

So nothing over 62?

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Correct, it would not be beneficial to apply for Federal Disability Retirement after age 62 as you will be eligible for a regular retirement at this age and you will receive a regular retirement annuity.

[@jwcrowson]

Thank you

[@DisabilityRetirement]

Thanks for watching James!