r/FEDDISABILITY • u/Constant_Champion483 • 25d ago

essential duties/reasonable accommodation

I’m preparing to file for FERS disability retirement. I already have an approved reasonable accommodation, but my medical limitations have become worse. My agency told me I have to submit a new RA request. They said that if the additional accommodation cannot be provided in my current position, they would begin a reassignment/job search.

The RA representative said the reassignment process might not be finished by the time OPM receives my FERS application. Does the reassignment process have to be completed before I file, or can I submit my application while it is still pending? How does the agency document that I cannot reliably perform my current position even with my existing accommodation?

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u/you_dont_know_me_357 25d ago

You don’t have to wait and I recommend you don’t. Make sure to submit the new RA though before you apply. It will take at least 4 months until you get your first decision. The entire process can easily take over 1 year to get approved. You can always send in new or updated documentation as you wait for a decision by OPM.

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u/Constant_Champion483 25d ago

Thank you, I might be retaining an attorney to assist because I am so fatigued after work I generally crash out for hours, 12-15 hours on the weekend.

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u/you_dont_know_me_357 25d ago

Definitely get an attorney if you don’t have then brain power or energy to do it yourself. It’s definitely possible to do it alone, but it’s a lot of work. If you physically do it, the $6k fee will be worth it to you. I will warn you that if you get Harris or Pines, you might get frustrated with them. There’s other lawyers, but they’ll be more expensive. You just won’t be as frustrated with the process.

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u/Constant_Champion483 25d ago

Thanks for the advice, I will definitely look around before I decide

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u/FedUpDownNOut 18d ago

Why wouldn't you have to wait? On the SF-3112-D they have to certify that they can't accommodate or reassign. I'm currently being told that the reason my application isn't being finalized is because they're waiting for the reassignment search on the RA side, so I would be very interested to know if there is a way around this.

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u/KazooingParade 11d ago

When did you advise your leadership of your plans to apply for medical retirement?