Disability Retirement

Members who are no longer able to perform the duties of their NHRS-covered employment due to an incapacity (either mental or physical) that is likely to be permanent may qualify for a Disability Retirement benefit. The Disability Retirement pension will be payable for the eligible member’s lifetime if the member’s disability continues.

Eligibility for Ordinary Disability Retirement (non job-related)

A member may qualify for Ordinary Disability Retirement under the following conditions:

Active member becomes disabled due to a non-work-related condition

  • Member’s disability is likely to be permanent
  • Member’s application for disability retirement is filed within one year of the date the member's contributions to NHRS cease
  • Member’s Disability Retirement application is approved by the NHRS Board of Trustees

Eligibility for Accidental Disability Retirement (job-related)

A member may qualify for Accidental Disability Retirement under the following conditions:

  • Active member becomes disabled due to a work-related condition
  • Member’s disability is likely to be permanent
  • No minimum service is required
  • Member’s application for disability retirement is filed within one year of the date the member's contributions to NHRS cease
  • Member’s Disability Retirement application is approved by the NHRS Board of Trustees
  • Generally, there must be a finding of compensability under Workers’ Compensation by the employer, the employer's insurance carrier or the Commissioner of Labor 

Disability Retirement Brochure