Alexandria, Virginia OPM Disability Retirement Attorneys
Lawyers Working With Federal Employees in Alexandria to Secure Benefits Through FERS
Living with a medical condition that limits your ability to work can be overwhelming, especially if you are a federal employee who has dedicated years of your life in service to the government. Fortunately, disability retirement benefits may be available through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), ensuring that you will have essential financial support after leaving your position. However, applying for these benefits can be a complex process, and you will need to meet strict eligibility requirements.
The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. provides legal guidance to federal employees in Alexandria and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With an in-depth understanding of the rules and procedures followed by OPM when assessing applications, we can help you apply for retirement benefits and protect your rights throughout the process.
As we work with you to apply for benefits, we will help you gather medical evidence, submit forms and documents, communicate with agency representatives, and meet legal deadlines. If OPM denies your claim, we can assist with the reconsideration process or pursue an appeal through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). Our lawyers are committed to providing compassionate representation backed by a deep understanding of the unique issues faced by federal workers.
Disability Retirement Benefits Available to Federal Employees
Disability retirement is not the same as workers’ compensation or Social Security Disability Insurance. Instead, it is a form of retirement benefit that may be available when a medical condition prevents a federal employee from continuing in their position.
In most cases, federal employees will apply to receive benefits through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). To qualify, a person must have a minimum of 18 months of civilian service. A disability, which may be related to physical or mental health, must be expected to persist for a minimum of one year, and it must prevent them from performing their job duties. The employing agency must confirm that it is unable to make adjustments to accommodate the employee or move them to a similar position.
Requirements for Applying for Disability Retirement Through OPM
The process of applying for retirement benefits involves numerous forms, strict documentation requirements, and coordination with both the employing agency and treating physicians. Applicants must submit medical documentation from licensed professionals that clearly defines their diagnosis, prognosis, and functional limitations. Statements from the employing agency about accommodation efforts and job performance must also be provided.
Applications must be filed within one year of separation from federal service. Missing this deadline can result in the permanent loss of eligibility, regardless of the severity of the medical condition.
The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. helps Alexandria-based federal workers compile and submit complete, accurate applications that meet OPM’s standards. By ensuring that all aspects of an application are well-supported and clearly explained, our lawyers can help increase the likelihood of approval while minimizing potential delays during the application process.
Factors That May Affect Ongoing Eligibility for Disability Benefits
Even after approval, OPM retirement disability benefits are not necessarily permanent. Several factors may affect a recipient’s ability to continue receiving benefits, including:
- Medical Exams: OPM may ask for periodic updates on the recipient’s medical condition, requiring them to receive an exam to determine whether they still have a disability. If the person has recovered and has the ability to perform work they had done in the past, OPM may stop paying benefits.
- Reemployment in Federal Service: Returning to work in a position that is comparable to the job held prior to retirement will typically disqualify a person from continuing to receive benefits.
- Income Thresholds: Engaging in gainful employment outside the federal government may be permissible, but if earnings exceed 80% of the current pay rate for the position held at retirement, benefits may be suspended.
- Failure to Respond to OPM Requests: If a person does not provide updated medical information when requested or fails to comply with medical review requirements, OPM may terminate benefits.
These rules make it important to remain vigilant and proactive, especially when circumstances change. The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. provides continuing support to clients to help them respond to communications from OPM, submit required documentation, and defend against the inappropriate termination of benefits.
Contact Our Alexandria, VA Disability Retirement Lawyers for Federal Employees
Federal employees in Alexandria who are living with disabling conditions will need to understand the benefits that may be available. Disability retirement can provide critical financial relief, but the process of applying for these benefits can be complex and time sensitive. The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. is ready to help you navigate each step of your application, and we can also help you file an appeal if benefits have been denied. Contact our firm by calling 866-460-0994 to discuss these matters in a free consultation and begin building a path toward a more secure future.