Disability

Disability retirement is available to any member who becomes incapacitated, mentally or physically, and cannot continue in the performance of duties.

A “total disability” means a disability condition that renders a member unable to engage in any occupation for which this member is reasonably suited by training or experience and which is expected to last at least 12 months. A “partial disability” means a disability condition that renders a member unable to perform the occupation for which this member is reasonably suited by training or experience but still allows this member to function in other employment and which is expected to last at least 12 months.

Disability retirement eligibility may vary according to plan. In general, to qualify for a disability retirement, a member must meet all of the following three requirements:

1. must have 10 or more years of creditable service
2. must not be eligible for un-reduced retirement benefits (“full retirement”)
   – less than age 60 in the Public Employee Plan Tier 1
   – less than age 65 in the Public Employee Plan Tier 2
   – not eligible for Rule of 85
3. must be “in service” at the time of application.

A member who is “in service” means a member who “is deemed to be disabled while working in employment covered by the system and is making contributions to the system, or is receiving workers’ compensation payments, or is receiving disability payments under an employer’s disability policy, or is on sabbatical or other leave authorized by the member’s employer.”

Physicians who have recently examined the applicant must verify the disabling condition. A third party administrator will review the applicant’s medical records and will notify the Wyoming Retirement System of their findings. WRS’ disability administrator will make the final determination. In the event of a contested decision, there are appeal procedures available to the applicant.