When you file an application for federal disability retirement with the Office of Personnel Management, you must submit a very thorough and complete application. There is a lot of things about your condition that you must document for the OPM. If you don’t, your chances for a denial at the initial level may increase. Here are some important pieces of information to document in your application:
Medical Condition
First and foremost, you must show and prove that you do indeed suffer from a medical condition. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a physical condition (cancer, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, spinal stenosis, etc.) or a psychological one (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, etc.). A medical professional, that you are currently treating with, must diagnose you. The condition must also be expected to last at least one year, which is one of the eligibility requirements.
Service Deficiency Correlation
Second, your medical condition must be causing your inability to complete your essential job functions. You must show that you are unable to perform your job because your condition limits you from doing so. It’s very important to have a supportive doctor here, so they can provide you/your agency with an appropriate medical opinion.
No Accommodations
Third, your agency must prove that it was unable to provide you with an accommodation for your condition. For example, if you are a Federal Air Marshal and suffer from IBS and your doctor says you have to be within 20 feet of a restroom at all times, there is no reasonable accommodation available for you that wouldn’t take away the essential elements of your job. There would also be no reassignment you would qualify for here either.
You and your agency must prove to OPM that every effort was made to do this. Medical evidence is also extremely important and can strengthen this part of your application. That’s why it’s so important to have a supportive doctor. It’s a bonus to have a supportive agency.
Social Security
You must document that you have applied for Social Security Disability. This is another eligibility requirement.
Harris Federal Law Firm assists federal employees with their federal disability retirement applications. We have a proven record of success. If you need help or think you may qualify, please call us at 877-226-2723 or fill out this INQUIRY form. The consultation is always FREE.
