Sometimes federal employees are removed from their position while they’re applying for Disability Retirement. This could be because of an inability for them to do their job but it could also be related to a RIF or layoff. If you find yourself in this position, it may feel like a major setback, but there are 3 reasons why it could be better than you think.
Don’t Quit – Let Your Agency Remove You
First of all, it’s important to know that you shouldn’t quit or resign while you’re in the process of applying for Federal Disability Retirement. There are other options to get some relief without quitting like:
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- Requesting an accommodation
- Going on FLMA, or
- Going on LWOP
In fact, using things like FLMA and LWOP could even help you. Read more about how taking leave could actually support your claim on our blog.
But what if I’ve Already Been Fired?
Don’t panic, there’s some good news.
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- If you’ve been fired because of your medical inability to perform your duties, this is actually very supportive to your claim. This is like your agency telling the OPM, “This worker’s medical conditions were so detrimental to her work that we had to fire her.” Since you’re trying to prove to OPM that you’re unable to work with your medical conditions, this can be extremely supportive. Just know you’ll need to submit an application for Disability Retirement within 1 year of your separation date. Don’t worry – a decision doesn’t need to be made before a year. Your application just needs to be submitted.
- Even if you are removed for a long period before you get your approval for Disability Retirement, you’ll get back pay. That means that you’ll be paid back for all the time you spent without pay. To learn more about back pay, read our blog.
- More good news – if your federal health and life insurance was removed when you were removed, you can get it reinstated when you’re approved for Disability Retirement. Read more about how this works on our blog.
As you can see, despite the setback, being fired from your federal position while you’re applying for Disability Retirement isn’t the end of the road. You’re able to make back money and benefits to support your retirement.
But What if I’m Removed for a Different Reason?
Even if you’re removed for a different reason like agency downsizing or RIFs, there’s still hope. Being able to show that you were already applying before being fired will help show the OPM you really need the support of Federal Disability Retirement.
Remember, if you haven’t already applied, you’ll have to apply for Disability Retirement within 1 year of separation in order for your case to be considered. Keep in mind, your application will need to include your SF50 – which is basically just a document that shows your employment history – and any removal documents you got when you were let go.
If you’ve got more questions about this, call our office today for a free consultation, or if you’re a client, send an email to your case manager. We’d be happy to help you understand this complex process.
