Resource Center for VRS Employers: Hybrid Retirement Plan

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Virginia Local Disability Program (VLDP)

Virginia Local Disability Program (VLDP)

If you are a political subdivision or school division employee covered under the Hybrid Retirement Plan, you are enrolled automatically in the Virginia Local Disability Program or a comparable program provided by your employer. Check with your human resource office to see if your employer participates in VLDP.

VLDP provides income protection if you can’t work because of a non-work-related or work-related illness, injury or other condition, such as surgery, pregnancy, complications from pregnancy or a catastrophic or major chronic condition. A work-related disability is the result of an occupational illness or injury that occurs on the job and the cause is determined to be compensable under the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act.

The program focuses on assisting you with your recovery and helping you make a safe return to your full duties, if you are able. Under VLDP, you are eligible for:

  • Short-term disability coverage
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Cost-of-living adjustments

For more information, review the Virginia Local Disability Program (VLDP) Handbook for Members PDF icon.

Note: You are responsible for calling Alight toll-free at 1-877-928-7021 as soon as possible to submit your claim. A family member or friend can call on your behalf. You are not eligible to receive benefits more than 14 days before the date you contact Alight. As a participant in VLDP, you are automatically covered under the VLDP Long-Term Care Plan. If your employer provides a comparable disability program, please check with your human resource office to see if long-term care coverage is provided.

Eligible political subdivision and school division employees in the Hybrid Retirement Plan who become disabled and cannot work have protection through the Virginia Local Disability Program (VLDP). The program includes short-term and long-term disability benefits and a long-term care program. VLDP encourages rehabilitation with the goal of returning employees to gainful employment, when they are medically able.

Political subdivisions and school divisions are covered automatically under VLDP unless they previously opted out. In 2013, all political subdivisions and school divisions had the opportunity to opt out of VLDP and participate in a comparable program by passing an irrevocable resolution. No action was required for employers who chose to participate in VLDP.

Comparable Employer-Paid Disability Program

The employer-paid comparable program must meet or exceed the coverage set out in Chapter 11.1 of Title 51.1 of the Code of Virginia. A comparable program must include short-term and long-term disability coverage. Long-term care coverage may be offered but is not required by law.

If you’re unsure whether you participate in VLDP or a comparable program, consult myVRS Navigator or review your archives for past resolutions.

VRS Reporting Requirements

Whether you provide VLDP or a comparable disability program to your Hybrid Retirement Plan members, it’s essential to notify VRS when an employee has a long-term disability claim or change in disability status so that other VRS benefits can continue.

Refer to the VLDP Employer Manual PDF icon for program details and to the administrative resources on this page for additional guidance.

Alight Support

Alight serves as VRS’ third-party administrator for managed care disability claims. For assistance with claims administration or Alight’s LeavePro self-service portal, call 1-844-507-5391, or e-mail VDPsupport@reedgroup.com.

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