Treasurer Folwell Recognizes Retirement Systems for Ongoing Review of Disability Programs

Raleigh, N.C. – North Carolina State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell, CPA, recognized the Retirement Systems Division (RSD) today for its ongoing efforts to review disability benefits programs, as well as methods and priorities of recovering overpayments from recipients.

RSD administers the state's disability programs on behalf of state and local governments; the programs provide monthly replacement income to qualified recipients who become disabled while serving as permanent public employees.

“I've spoken to many people who know someone on disability who can still work, and I believe the vast majority of completed disability applications are approved," said Treasurer Folwell. “I feel that we need to take a hard look at the policies and processes to ensure we are paying benefits only to those who are eligible and recovering overpayments in order to maintain the sustainability of these well-funded programs."

One example, the Treasurer noted, is the differences between the legal requirements for eligibility for local, state and federal disability programs.

“I've instructed RSD to continue to meet our legal obligation to recoup overpayments while ensuring that eligible members receive all benefits due," said Treasurer Folwell. “Cases of fraud are at the top of that list. Taxpayers expect us to run our plans efficiently, and if we do that the state will be able to continue attracting and retaining qualified public servants for North Carolina's state and local agencies."

Treasurer Folwell indicated that the review should be complete by June 2018.

Background:

The Department of State Treasurer's Retirement Systems Division manages the processing and administration of all retirement benefits, including disability, for North Carolina state government, local government, law enforcement, judicial, and legislative employees, as well as fire and rescue workers, and all of their applicable beneficiaries. More information can be found at www.myncretirement.com.