If you are in a situation where you are dealing with problems of continuing distress and regular absences from work, you may be forced to retire due to ill health or this may be recommended by a doctor. You need to be aware of your options and the procedures that need to be carried out in order for you to plan for your ill health retirement. You should seek professional help from a financial advisor in order to obtain figures and facts on your pension calculations and monies that you will receive. You may want o consult your employment union if available if you are forced to take retirement from ill health due to having an accident or injury on the job.

Gather necessary medical evidence

Before you make an application for ill health retirement, you need to gather necessary medical documentation. You will need reports from your own health care doctor as well as occupational health doctors, hospital specialists, or consultants who are in charge of your health care.

This can be a long process in establishing what you will be eligible to be paid out for when you take an ill health retirement. If you are experiencing a life threating or very severe illness, this process can be shortened.

If you are leaving work and are thinking of taking an ill health retirement, you will likely be able to remain on full salary for a period of up to six months. However this depends upon how long you have been working for your employer. You may be able to claim sick pay for a period before taking a leave of absence pay, this can help to extend your income. Again, the level of benefits that are paid to you will depend on your current salary and work regulations. You may need to submit regular statements that confirm your medical status and your inability to work.

If you are responsible for paying a mortgage, it may be a good idea to renegotiate the repayment terms. If possible, check into getting coverage for mortgage payments in the event of ill health retirement before you actually apply for it.

Can you work after ill health retirement?

You can work after ill health retirement and still receive benefits provided that you find suitable alternative employment. You should check the criteria that pertain to you in terms of what is allowable after you are receiving any kind of government or previous employment place benefits or pensions. You will not be permitted to do a similar job if it is going to interfere with your health condition. You may risk losing your financial assistance if you violate set conditions. Check with your pension agency regarding these questions. You may very well be able to make a suitable income for you and your family through a combination of pension money and part time income. Get the opinion of your health care provider and talk things over with your family as well as a financial planner. Only then will you be able to make the best decisions regarding your ill health retirement plan.