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Basic Information for Retired NFL Players
Overview of Available Benefits
RPA works with retired players to help them understand the programs and services they have available. Options include federal programs, collective-bargaining agreements, and legal settlements. Each has its own qualifications and its own forms. Some of the benefits available to retired NFL players include:
- Line-of-Duty Benefits (“LOD”) for substantial disablement arising from NFL activities. Benefits can be up to $4,000 per month for no longer than 90 months.
- Neurocognitive Disability Benefits (“NCD”) for acquired mild or moderate neurocognitive impairments. Benefits are up to $5,000 per month for no more than 15 years.
- Total and Permanent Disability Benefits (“T&P”) for being substantially unable to perform any type of paid work. Benefits can range up to $22,084 per month for life.
- Social Security Disability for a medical condition that’s expected to last at least one year or result in death. The maximum benefit is nearly $2800 per month.
- “Mackey 88 Plan” for medical and custodial care resulting from dementia, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Benefits are up to the cost of assisted living provided in a facility of your choice.
- NFL “Concussion Settlement” for brain injuries resulting from NFL play. In some cases, benefits can be more than $5 million. (Application deadline was August 7, 2017.)
- Joint Replacement Program for knee, hip, or shoulder replacements. Benefits are payable up to $5,250.
- Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Pension Plan for retired players. Requires 3 Credited Seasons for any seasons 1993 or later and 4 Credited Seasons for 1992 and earlier.
- Medicare Supplement Insurance subsidy, up to $140/month.
- Vested Inactive Life Insurance, up to $50,000.
- Neurological Care Program that makes teams of neurological specialists available at 6 sites nationwide. This program does not provide any funding.
- Spine Treatment Program provides facilitated access, comprehensive evaluation, and possible treatment at five top-tier medical centers recognized for their expertise in spine care. This program does not provide any funding.
- Discount Prescription Drug Card that provides discounts at over 57,000 retail pharmacies.
This is just an overview. Each of these plans and benefits has its own limitations and qualifications.