Step-by-Step: Preparing Your SF 3112 Application Package

TFDR Editorial · July 14, 2026

Overview of the SF 3112 Series

The SF 3112 series consists of multiple forms that together document your disability retirement claim from every angle — your perspective, your physician's assessment, and your agency's input.

SF 3112: Applicant's Statement of Disability

This is your opportunity to describe, in your own words, how your medical condition affects your ability to do your job. Be specific, honest, and thorough:

• Describe your specific medical condition(s)
• Explain exactly which job duties you can no longer perform and why
• Describe how your condition has progressed over time
• List all treatments you've undergone and their effectiveness
• Explain any accommodations that have been tried and why they were insufficient

SF 3112-1: Physician's Statement

This is arguably the most important document in your entire application. Your physician must:

• Provide a clear diagnosis with ICD codes
• Describe the clinical findings supporting the diagnosis
• Explain the functional limitations caused by the condition
• State whether the condition is expected to last at least one year
• Address your ability to perform the specific duties listed in your position description

SF 3112-2: Supervisor's Statement

Your supervisor completes this form, describing your position, any performance issues related to your condition, accommodation efforts, and whether reassignment is possible. If your supervisor is uncooperative, your HR office may need to intervene.

SF 3107: Application for Immediate Retirement

This is the standard retirement application form. It captures your personal information, service history, and benefit elections. Complete it carefully — errors can delay processing.

Supporting Documentation

Beyond the required forms, include any additional medical records, test results, specialist reports, or other documentation that supports your claim. More evidence is generally better than less, as long as it's relevant and organized.

Keep reading

• Reviewing Your Own SF-3112A: A Self-Audit Checklist
• What Makes a Physician Statement Persuasive to OPM
• The Duty Nexus: Why Strong Conditions Get Denied

If you would like this reviewed against your own situation, see the Document Review.