Disability & Survivor Benefits

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Benefits negotiated for you — because the game doesn't stop when you leave the field.

The NFLPA has negotiated three distinct disability benefits to support you through different circumstances. Each has its own purpose, eligibility criteria, and application timeline. The NFLPA Disability team is here to help you understand your options and navigate the process — at no cost to you.

 

Your Disability Benefits

Line of Duty (LOD)

The Line of Duty benefit provides monthly payments for injuries, surgeries, and impairments sustained while playing in the NFL.

Eligibility & Timing: You must apply after your playing career ends. Non-vested players have 48 months from the date you cease being an active player to apply. If you have five or more credited seasons, you have an equivalent number of years — for example, seven credited seasons means seven years to apply.

How It Works: Qualification is primarily orthopedic, based on a point system in which each eligible surgery and impairment is assigned a value based on severity. A total score of nine or more points means you're approved.

The Benefit: $4,500/month for up to 7½ years.

Neurocognitive Disability

This benefit supports former players experiencing cognitive impairments such as memory issues — and the impairment does not have to be NFL-related.

Eligibility & Timing: Non-vested players have seven years from your last contract to apply. Vested players may apply until you begin receiving your pension.

How It Works: After applying, you'll be evaluated by a neurologist and neuropsychologist to determine whether a cognitive impairment exists and whether it's mild or moderate.

The Benefit: Minimum $4,000/month for up to 15 years.

Total and Permanent Disability (T&P)

T&P provides monthly payments to active and vested former players who are unable to work — whether the cause is NFL-related or not.

Eligibility & Timing: Eligibility categories depend on the timing of your application and, for active categories, whether the impairment is football-related. Non-vested players have 18 months from your last contract to apply. Vested players may apply until you begin receiving your pension.

How It Works: Evaluations are based on the impairments listed on your application across three areas:

  • Orthopedic — physical impairments
  • Neurocognitive — cognitive impairments such as memory issues
  • Psychiatric — mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders

How to Apply

1. Know your options. Review the benefits above or visit NFLPlayerBenefits.com to learn more about eligibility.

2. Gather your medical records. Contact benefits@nflpa.com for help accessing your club records.

3. Submit your application. Apply online or download the PDF at NFLPlayerBenefits.com.

4. Attend your independent medical evaluation. Once your application is submitted, you'll be scheduled for a neutral physician evaluation (IME) with a doctor assigned to your case.

 

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

The NFLPA Disability team can help you understand your options, gather your medical records, file your application, and answer any questions — all for free. If your application is denied, the team will walk you through the appeals process.
 

This benefit is yours. Reach out.