Episode Summary
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees Disability and Employment Rights and Social Security Disability for All, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer and expert in federal disability retirement. Eric provides a step-by-step guide to applying for OPM disability retirement, explaining eligibility, required medical documentation, and how it differs from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Timestamps:
- 00:00 – Welcome to Empowering Workers
- 00:09 – Introduction to Eric L. Pines and today’s topic
- 00:42 – What is OPM disability retirement?
- 01:41 – Understanding SSDI and how it relates to OPM disability
- 04:52 – Medical documentation requirements for OPM and SSDI claims
- 06:22 – How OPM and SSDI claims impact each other
- 07:04 – Working while receiving OPM disability vs. SSDI benefits
- 08:23 – Mental health conditions in OPM and SSDI claims
- 12:31 – How complicated is the application process? Do you need a lawyer?
- 15:10 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Eric Pines
About the Show
Empowering Workers: Federal Employees Disability and Employment Rights and Social Security Disability for All is a podcast dedicated to helping federal employees and other workers understand their rights in the workplace. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist, with expert insights from Eric L. Pines, the show covers crucial topics on disability benefits, employment rights, and navigating complex federal regulations.