Direct Fee Payment for Title 2 Claimant Representation under the Federal State Employees' Pension Plan (FSEEP)

The Federal State Employees' Pension Plan (FSEEP) is a benefit program for federal employees. One of the important aspects of FSEEP is the Direct Fee Payment (DFP) system, which provides compensation to eligible claimants.

Direct Fee Payment is a payment made directly to an individual claiming benefits under FSEEP. This payment is intended to compensate claimants for their time and effort in representing themselves before the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR).

Eligibility for Direct Fee Payment

Claimants who meet certain eligibility requirements are eligible for Direct Fee Payment. These requirements include being a claimant under FSEEP, having applied for benefits, and meeting the time and effort requirements set forth in the FSP.

The Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR) is responsible for processing claims under FSEEP. To receive Direct Fee Payment, claimants must be assigned to an ODAR office that offers this service.

Benefits of Direct Fee Payment

Direct Fee Payment provides several benefits to claimants, including:

• A lump-sum payment for services rendered by the claimant and their representative.
• Medical expenses related to the claimant's disability or injury.
• Obligations to pay taxes on any proceeds received from a DFP payment.

The total amount of Direct Fee Payment awarded in FY 2017 was $16,511,919.01.

How to Request Direct Fee Payment

Claimants can request Direct Fee Payment by submitting a claim form to ODAR and providing documentation supporting their time and effort as represented by an attorney or other representative.

The process for requesting DFP typically involves the following steps:

1. File a claim with ODAR, including any required documentation.
2. Submit a fee request form to ODAR indicating that DFP is desired.
3. ODAR will review and approve or deny the claim for DFP.
4. The total amount of DFP awarded will be determined based on the approved claim.

https://www.ssa.gov/foia/resources/proactivedisclosure/2018/FY%202017%20Attorneys%20and%20Non-Attorneys%20Eligible%20for%20Direct%20Fee%20Payment%20for%20Title%202%20Claimant%20Representation.pdf