Q. I had a stroke about three months ago. I have been working at the VA hospital for 26 years and turned 60 in December. I am having vision problems and seizure-like episodes post stroke. I have applied for disability retirement at the VA, but they said I can do voluntary retirement only. If not for the stroke, I would still be working until my retirement age. I think I am being pushed into voluntary retirement. I need advice on what to do.
A. Your agency is correct. Because you meet the requirements for an immediate, unreduced annuity, you aren’t eligible for disability retirement. To confirm that, go to www.opm.gov/retrie/pubs/handbook/C061.pdf and scroll to Section 61B2.1-4.
