Requesting a Disability Pension

A disability pension provides replacement income for people who can't work due to a permanent health condition that reduces their earning capacity by more than two-thirds. This pension can be requested online or by written letter.

This page explains how to request this pension, what information to provide, and offers a ready-to-use letter template, plus a tool to automatically generate your personalized letter.

When should you write this letter?

• Your health condition permanently limits your ability to work;
• You've stopped working for an extended period for health reasons;
• You want to submit your first disability pension application;
• You need to clarify your health and professional situation.

In all these cases, a written letter remains a reliable way to support your request.

Required information to include

• Your first and last name and social security number;
• A brief description of your health condition;
• The date you stopped working;
• Documents attached (medical reports, certificates).

The better your file is medically documented, the more accurate the review of your request.

Official letter template

Important note: the letter sent to CPAM must be written in French, as it is a French administration. Below is a template you can use as a basis.

[First name LAST NAME]
[Full address]
[Social security number]

CPAM of [Department]
[CPAM address]

Written in [City], on [Date]

Subject: Disability pension request

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am requesting a disability pension given my health condition: [description].

[...]

→ The complete letter, tailored precisely to your situation and ready to send, is generated automatically in 3 minutes using the tool above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who decides on granting the disability pension?

The medical advisor at CPAM assesses the degree of disability and decides eligibility.

How long does it take to accept the request?

It can take several months due to the required medical examination.

Can disability pension be combined with part-time work?

Yes, within certain limits, depending on the recognized degree of disability.

What disability categories exist?

There are three categories based on ability to work and need for assistance from others.

Does the disability pension convert to a retirement pension?

Yes, it usually automatically converts upon reaching legal retirement age.