Can You Get Disability Benefits as a Postal Worker?

If you’re a postal worker facing a serious illness or injury, you may be wondering: What happens if I can no longer do my job? Post office disability benefits exist to help federal and postal employees who can no longer work due to medical conditions.

Knowing your options can protect your financial future. In this guide, we’ll break down your disability coverage, the application process, and what to do next if you need support.

What Is Post Office Disability?

Post office disability benefits fall under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). If you can’t perform your duties due to a long-term medical condition, you may qualify for FERS disability retirement.

To be eligible, you must:
Have at least 18 months of federal service
Have a disability expected to last at least one year
Prove that your condition prevents you from performing your postal job duties
Apply before or within one year of leaving your position

Your benefits include a percentage of your high-three average salary, along with continued health and life insurance coverage.

Important: You must also apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If you qualify for SSDI, it may reduce your FERS disability payment.

How to Apply for FERS Disability Retirement

The disability retirement application requires several key forms:

SF 3107 – Application for Immediate Retirement
SF 3112 – Disability Retirement Applicant’s Statement
Physician’s Statement – Medical proof supporting your claim

Your postal agency will complete a portion of the forms before submitting them to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Missing documents or incorrect forms can delay your approval, so double-check everything before submission.

For more details, visit the OPM Disability Retirement page.

Does the USPS Offer Short-Term Disability Insurance?

Unlike private companies, the U.S. Postal Service does NOT offer short-term disability insurance. If you run out of sick and annual leave, you may have no income until your FERS disability benefits begin.

How to Protect Yourself

Since short-term coverage isn’t available through USPS, consider:
Buying private disability insurance – Plans like the MBA Individual Disability Income plan provide monthly benefits when you’re unable to work.
Using the Voluntary Leave Transfer Program (VLTP) – You may receive donated leave from coworkers.
Applying for Social Security Disability (SSDI) – If you qualify, this can serve as temporary income support.

Check with your union or a benefits specialist to explore your best options.

Can You Request Job Accommodations?

Yes! The Postal Service must provide reasonable accommodations for disabled employees under the Rehabilitation Act.

Reasonable accommodations include:
Modified work schedules
Ergonomic office equipment
Reassignment to a vacant position

If you need adjustments to keep working, request accommodations through your supervisor or HR department.

Will You Keep Your Health & Life Insurance?

If you retire due to disability, your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) and Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) will continue—as long as you were enrolled for at least five years.

Staying covered is crucial for managing long-term medical conditions. Always confirm with OPM that your benefits remain active after disability approval.

Can You Work After Receiving Disability Benefits?

One of the biggest benefits of FERS disability retirement is that you can work in the private sector while still receiving payments.

However, there’s a limit—you cannot earn more than 80% of your previous postal salary. If you exceed this amount, your disability benefits may stop.

This flexibility allows postal employees to earn additional income while still receiving retirement benefits.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Future

Post office disability benefits can provide financial security if you develop a medical condition that prevents you from working.

Key Takeaways:
FERS disability retirement is available for long-term disabilities.
The USPS does not provide short-term disability insurance.
You can request reasonable accommodations to keep working.
Health and life insurance continue for eligible retirees.
Private-sector work is allowed—but with an income limit.

If you believe you qualify for disability benefits, take action as soon as possible. Filing your claim correctly the first time can help you avoid delays.

Need Help? Get Support Now

For expert guidance, visit PostalDisabilityCoverage.com. We provide federal employees with the latest disability benefit insights to help you secure your future.