If you become totally incapacitated for work with a LEOFF employer, and you leave that job as a result of the disability, you may be eligible to receive a disability retirement benefit. DRS determines whether a member is totally incapacitated, and if the disability occurred in the line of duty.
If DRS decides that you are entitled to a non-duty-related disability retirement, your benefit will be determined by the same formula as a service retirement benefit. Your benefit will be reduced to reflect the difference between your age at the time benefits begin and age 53. Your non-duty disability benefit is taxable.
If you are entitled to duty disability benefits, your age does not affect your benefit, unless you choose a survivor option. You may choose:
For both duty and non-duty disabilities, if you choose monthly benefit payments, you may select a single beneficiary to receive a continuing benefit in the event of your death. If you select a survivor option, however, your benefit will be reduced based on the option you choose and the difference between your age and the age of your beneficiary. See What are my benefit options?
If you receive a monthly disability retirement benefit, DRS may require you to undergo periodic medical exams. If an examination reveals that you have recovered from your disability, your retirement benefit will be canceled and you will be required to return to duty.
Note: Changes were made to this provision (HB 1261) during the 2007 legislative session.
In some cases you can obtain service credit for work time missed while on temporary disability leave. For more information, refer to the LEOFF Plan 2 Disability Benefits brochure or contact a Retirement Services Analyst. You can also get a disability brochure from your employer.