Disability Benefits for Special Service Members Protection Against the Unexpected

Switching From Special Service Disability Benefits to Regular Disability Benefits

If you are receiving Special Service disability benefits and are awarded social security or railroad retirement disability benefits, you have the option of switching your Special Service disability benefits to regular disability benefits. Please note that you must apply for regular disability benefits within 60 days from the date you receive the social security disability or railroad retirement disability award letter.

When considering switching benefits you should:

1. Weigh your options carefully. Once you switch from Special Service disability benefits to regular disability benefits, you cannot switch back to Special Service disability benefits at a later date.
2. Call IPERS at 515-281-0020 or toll-free at 1-800-622-3849 to request an estimate showing the regular disability benefits you may be eligible to receive. At that time, you should also request an Application to Change IPERS Special Service Disability Benefits to Regular Disability Benefits.
3. Complete the entire application and have the last page notarized. If you are married, you will also need your spouse’s notarized signature. Be sure to provide a copy of your social security disability benefits or railroad retirement disability benefits award letter.
4. Send your completed application and supporting documentation to IPERS. An incomplete application will be returned to you and may cause a delay or loss of benefits.