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).

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

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.