If you’re a federal employee unable to work due to a debilitating health condition, disability benefits can be a valuable safety net for you and your family.
As government workers, federal employees typically receive benefits through the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS).
However, to access disability benefits, federal employees must also understand how to apply for SSDI. A federal employee seeking disability retirement benefits must file for SSDI first, according to the OPM. Failing to do so risks having your OPM disability retirement application dismissed and missing out on much-needed financial support for you and your loved ones.
This blog post will explain how to apply for SSDI as a federal employee. We’ll discuss how the application works and address federal employees’s common questions about the process.
For assistance from our experienced Social Security Disability appeal lawyers, please call (800) 801-0598 or reach us online today.
What Is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to people who cannot work due to disabilities. Aid comes in the form of monthly payments based on an employee’s past earnings and the Social Security tax paid during their years of work. Generally, a more extensive work history means higher monthly payments.
Private employees and workers under FERS can apply for SSDI benefits. An employee’s medical condition must meet the requirements for a qualifying disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to be eligible for benefits. In essence, your impairment must be so severe that it prevents you from doing any work for at least 12 months.
Importantly, SSDI benefits are not intended for employees with temporary or short-term conditions. The SSA offers support only for employees who are totally and permanently disabled and unable to earn a living.
When Should a Federal Employee File for Social Security?
Generally, it’s wise to file for Social Security Disability as soon as you receive a disabling diagnosis and are unable to work. The review process can be lengthy, so it’s in your best interest not to delay unnecessarily.
Federal employees will also need documented proof that they’ve filed with SSDI to complete their application for OPM disability retirement. Importantly, you don’t have to wait for a response from the SSA to apply for benefits from OPM. Simply include a copy of your completed SSDI application or the SSA’s receipt notice.
What Do You Need to Apply for Social Security Disability?
You’ll need to have certain documents and information on hand when applying for Social Security Disability.
Some of the information you’ll need includes:
- Your Social Security number,
- Contact information for any healthcare providers you’ve seen about your condition,
- Prescriptions and medication you take,
- Records of treatments for your disability,
- Diagnostic test and exam results,
- Workers’ compensation claims,
- Verification of your earning history,
- Your past two years of employment history,
- Records of any current and past marriages, and
- Your bank account information.
It’s best to gather all this information before you start your application. However, you can also submit additional documentation throughout the SSDI review process.
Where Do I File My Application for SSDI?
Federal employees have three options for filing an SSDI application.
You can complete your application by:
- Filling it out online through the SSA’s website,
- Calling 1-800-772-1213 (or 1-800-325-0778 for deaf or hard of hearing), or
- Going to your local Social Security office.
You can find your local office on the SSA website. It’s often a good idea for in-person applications to call and make an appointment beforehand.
What Happens After Filing for SSDI?
The SSA will review your application, work history, and medical records. If you meet the basic non-medical requirements, your application will go to your state’s disability determination service for further review. They may ask for more documentation or call you in for an evaluation.
The review process can take around six to nine months. During this time, you can check on the status of your disability application online.
If your application is approved, there’s usually a waiting period of five months before your first benefit payment. You should notify OPM as soon as possible after your SSDI approval. Be aware that if you receive disability benefits from both the SSA and OPM, there will be an offset based on the amount of SSDI benefits you’re awarded.
Trusted Advisors for Federal Employees
Understanding your rights as a federal employee with a disability can be overwhelming. The actions you take now can have a significant impact on your health and your family’s financial future. At Pines Federal, we know the high stakes involved in your federal disability retirement application. For over two decades, we’ve helped thousands of federal employees navigate the administrative process of accessing OPM disability retirement benefits.
Our attorneys have deep knowledge of federal employment law and are dedicated to helping our clients exercise their unique rights. If you’re a federal employee struggling with your benefits application, contact our office online or call (800) 801-0598 today to learn more about how we can help you.