Do I Need an OPERS Disability Attorney to Sign Up for Benefits?
OPERS stands for Ohio Public Employee Retirement System. The Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (Ohio PERS) was established by state law in 1935 and operates under the authority of the Ohio General Assembly. Additional information about Ohio Statutes and Rules can be reviewed by visiting the legal section of the Ohio PERS Web site at www.opers.org.
OPERS provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefit programs for public employees throughout Ohio. A Columbus, Ohio disability attorney can help you understand the process of applying for benefits and can help you get the benefits you deserve. OPERS suggests that you read this Disability Packet before applying for disability benefits.This packet highlights the complex challenges that can arise when applying for disability benefits. At Agee Clymer Mitchell & Portman we have a team of attorneys and staff that understands the ins and outs of applying for OPERS benefits.
An Ohio OPERS attorney can help you get all of your disability request forms filled out properly. OPERS requires the following:
You are responsible for filing the Disability Benefit Application (DR-1) along with reports by your employer and your physician(s).
The Disability Benefit Application (DR-1) must be completed by you and be signed in the presence of a notary public. The Report of Attending Physician (DR-APS) is to be completed by your physician. It must describe in detail the disability on which the application is based.
You must sign the DR-APS form authorizing your physician to make a report to the OPERS Board of Trustees. If you have more than one physician you may submit multiple reports.
The Report of Employer for Disability Benefit Applicant form (DR-4) is to be completed by your employer and the payroll officer for the department in which you were employed. A written job description must be submitted by the employer along with their completed form.
Here is a link to a Disability Benefits Application. The skilled attorneys at Agee Clymer Mitchell & Portman can help you through this process. In addition, if you need to appeal a disability determination, we can help you prepare your case and fight for the disability benefits you deserve.
If your application for disability benefits is approved by the OPERS Board, you will be required to comply with all OPERS requests for medical information as well as medical examinations while you are receiving a disability benefit. At Agee Clymer Mitchell & Portman we can help you stay in compliance and keep your benefits.
Navigating OPERS paperwork can be difficult. If you are struggling with your OPERS disability benefits claim, we can help. With offices throughout Ohio, we are one of the leading Ohio OPERS law firms. Clients are taken on a contingency basis, and your initial consultation is completely free. If you need an Ohio attorney to assist with your OPERS claim, contact us today.