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Your ability to earn a living is likely your most valuable asset. Disability insurance helps protect it, providing a portion of your income if illness or injury prevents you from working. If you are a current or retired Federal employee, under age 60, working 30 hours a week, apply for Long-Term Disability coverage today!
Think about it. You don’t hesitate to insure your home, car, and even your phone, but what protects the income that pays for all of it? Don’t let common misconceptions stand in the way.
Common Myths vs. Reality
Here are some of the most common myths—and the facts you should know
I don’t need Disability Insurance because I have coverage through work.
The FERS retirement disability benefit is taxable and pays 60% of your salary for the first 12 months and then 40% until retirement eligibility.
My Federal benefits will fully protect my income if I become disabled.
Without traditional disability coverage, Federal Employees rely on sick leave and retirement disability, which can fall short.
I don’t need it because I don’t work in a “dangerous” job.
Most disabilities are caused by illness—not accidents—meaning they can happen to anyone, regardless of occupation.
Why It Matters for Federal Employees
If you’re unable to work, your Federal benefits may not fully replace your income—especially over time.
That gap may impact:
Mortgage or
rent payments
Daily living
expenses
Support for
your family
Long-term savings
and retirement
Protect what matters most.
Your income powers everything in your life. Taking a few minutes to understand your coverage can make a lasting difference.
Starting at
/month*
If you’re under age 60, GEBA’s Group Long Term Disability Insurance can help protect your income and your family.
The Hidden Risk:
It’s Not Just about Accidents
Most people assume disabilities come from workplace accidents or sudden injuries. In reality, they’re far more likely to come from everyday health issues.
of disabilities are caused by
illness not — accidents1
people will experience a disability before retirement 2
Conditions like cancer, heart disease, and chronic illnesses are far more likely to interrupt your ability to work than an unexpected injury. This makes disability insurance less of a “what if” and more of a practical safeguard.
A Federal Benefits Reality Check
While Federal Employees may be able to benefit from programs like the FERS Disability Retirement benefit, it’s important to understand how it works:
It’s income protection
FERS Disability is designed as a long-term retirement pathway, not full income replacement during your working year
It will cover my needs
Monthly payments may fall short of covering housing, family expenses, and long-term financial goals.
It’s easy to qualify
Qualifying for FERS Disability Retirement requires meeting certain conditions. You must demonstrate that your condition prevents you from performing your job, is expected to last at least one year, and that your Department or Agency cannot accommodate your condition.
1 “Hey Gen X: Time to Protect Your Income,” Council for Disability Income Awareness, July 2024
2 Disability Benefits (Publication No. 05-10029), Social Security Administration, February 2025
**Cost is based on members age 39 and younger with a 90-day waiting period. Cost for those eligible up to age 60, ranges from $6.50/month to $221.00/month based on member age, waiting period, and benefit amount.
Group Long Term Disability Insurance underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 on Policy form GMR under policy G-29344-0. For information including features, cost, eligibility, renewability, limitations, and exclusions, visit www.GEBA.com/LTD.
NEW YORK LIFE and the NEW YORK LIFE Box Logo are trademarks of New York Life Insurance Company.
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