"Is it hard to get federal disability retirement?" Yes, the process requires applicants to meet detailed eligibility criteria and provide extensive medical evidence. FERS disability benefits are designed for federal employees who can no longer fulfill job duties due to medical conditions. Applicants must prove their condition impacts their work and provide agency certification confirming no reasonable accommodations are possible. Challenges often include insufficient documentation and navigating complex regulations. Consulting a knowledgeable attorney or advisor can greatly improve the likeli