VRS Disability Retirement

This section applies only to members not covered under the Virginia Sickness and Disability Program.

Overview

If you are unable to perform your job because of a physical or mental disability and the disability is likely to be permanent, you may be eligible to apply for disability retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).

Eligibility

Your eligibility begins on the first day of employment in a VRS-covered position. Any medical condition you have when you are first employed, however, must worsen substantially for you to be considered for disability retirement. You also must apply for disability retirement while employed in a VRS-covered position or within 90 days of leaving employment.

You are not eligible for disability retirement if you have taken a refund of your VRS retirement benefit or you have been on leave without pay for more than 24 months.

Applying for Disability Retirement

Applying for disability retirement is now easier with the new Applying for Disability Retirement Booklet 158kb. The booklet offers a full description of VRS Disability Retirement eligibility requirements and benefits along with all the forms you need to apply.