Federal Disability Retirement (FERS)

Understanding the Federal Employees Retirement System

What Is FERS?

Imagine being a federal employee in a secure, high-ranking position within a U.S. government agency. For the past 22 years, you have dedicated your life to service, rarely missing a day’s work and boasting outstanding performance throughout your career. Suddenly, the secure life you’ve built seems to come to a screeching halt after you suffer a severe head injury and are no longer able to perform your everyday job functions. In a scenario like this, what will you do to financially survive?

Enter the Federal Disability Retirement (FDR).

This is a special right of all employees covered under the FERS. Once they meet certain requirements, federal workers may collect a portion of their salary if a medical condition prevents them from performing “useful and efficient” federal service in their position or a reasonably comparable position within the federal government. Disability retirement benefits are paid through retirement fund contributions made through payroll deductions over your years of federal service.

How Can Andalman & Flynn Help?

The application process for FDR includes numerous forms that can be complex and difficult to understand and assemble. At Andalman & Flynn, our experienced federal disability lawyers will work closely with you to complete your application and submit it to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for consideration. Our skilled attorneys proudly serve federal and postal workers throughout the United States, and will also help coordinate with other necessary individuals and offices in the submission of your application, including:

• Supervisors
• Doctors
• Human resources
• Payroll department
• Legal offices
• OPM

Andalman & Flynn’s experienced and knowledgeable attorneys can answer any questions you may have, representing you through all stages of the initial application process as well as any necessary appeals. Should your appeal go before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), our team will provide you with representation necessary to help you secure the benefits to which you’re entitled. We can also represent you on other disputes that may arise out of your health issues, including proposed removals, disciplinary actions, claims for reasonable accommodations, the use of leave, and the continuation of health insurance. Schedule your initial consultation with our federal disability attorneys to get the expert legal guidance you need!