Contact the PERS Portland headquarters office, TeleCounseling Unit to obtain an application form. This form is your official application to retire due to disability. Applying promptly will help us process your claim efficiently. You should speak to your physicians before applying for PERS disability retirement and explain that they will be contacted to confirm and document your disabling condition. Any mental or emotional disorder claims require a report from a psychiatrist or a psychologist and a medical doctor.
Orthopedic claims require a report from an orthopedic doctor.
When you complete your application for disability retirement, list only the physicians that can address your current disability period. Your disability must render you unable to perform any work you are qualified to perform. When you apply for disability retirement benefits, you will complete a Medical Information Release form. PERS will then contact your doctor, health care provider, hospital or clinic for medical information. PERS may also require documentation from your Workers Compensation carrier or any insurance company involved.