How do you Apply for FERS Disability Retirement

To apply for Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) Disability Retirement, you must submit an application through your federal agency and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The process involves several required forms and medical documentation.

1. Confirm you Meet the Eligibility Requirements

You generally must:

• Have at least 18 months of creditable federal civilian service

• Have a medical condition that prevents you from performing your job

• The condition must be expected to last at least 1 year

• Your agency cannot accommodate your condition or place you in another comparable job

• Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

2. Complete the Required Forms

The main form used to apply is:

• SF-3107 – Application for Immediate Retirement

You must also submit:

• SF-3112A – Applicant’s Statement of Disability

• SF-3112B – Supervisor’s Statement

• SF-3112C – Physician’s Statement

• SF-3112D – Agency Certification of Reassignment and Accommodation Efforts

• SF-3112E – Disability Retirement Application Checklist

These forms collectively make up the FERS disability retirement application package.

3. Submit Through Your Agency

If you are still employed, submit the completed forms to your agency’s HR office. They will review the package and forward it to OPM for a final decision.

If you separated from federal service, you must apply within one year of separation and send the application directly to OPM.

4. Medical Documentation

Your physician must clearly explain:

• Your medical condition

• Why it prevents you from performing your job duties

• Why the condition is expected to last at least 12 months

• Strong medical documentation is one of the most important parts of approval.

5. OPM Review Process

Once submitted, OPM will:

• Review your medical and employment records

• Determine if you meet the legal requirements

• Approve or deny the disability retirement

• The review process can take several months.

Important tip: Many applications are denied because the medical documentation does not clearly connect the medical condition to the specific duties of the federal job.

Need Some Assistance?

If you have questions about your eligibility or need guidance through the process, speaking with an advisor who understands the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) can make a significant difference. An experienced agent can help review your situation, explain your options, and assist you in understanding how disability retirement may affect your overall retirement plan. If you would like personalized guidance, we welcome you to reach out for a no-obligation conversation to help ensure you make informed decisions about your federal retirement benefits. Simply click the button below to begin your request.

Applying for FERS Disability Retirement