NFL Total and Permanent Disability, often called NFL T&P disability, is the NFL Disability Plan’s benefit for former players who can no longer work for pay because of injury or illness. The disability can come from football, other causes, or both, as long as it is expected to be permanent.
What T&P pays in 2026
T&P benefits are paid monthly, and the amount depends on your category. These are the monthly minimums:
Your benefit may be higher depending on your credited seasons.
How your T&P category is decided
Your disability arose from NFL football activities and began while you were an active player.
Your disability began while you were an active player but didn’t come from football.
Your disability began within a set period after your career ended.
Your disability began later, after the Inactive A window.
Because the category is mainly based on what caused your disability and when it began, proving an earlier onset date can move you into a higher category. That is why medical records from your playing days matter so much.
Who is eligible for NFL T&P
- You must be unable to work for pay because of injury or illness
- The disability must be expected to be permanent
- You must attend exams with the Plan’s neutral physicians
- A Social Security disability award can support your claim
You must apply within 18 months of your release. After that, T&P is generally closed to players with fewer than three credited seasons.
T&P vs. Line of Duty
Line of Duty is for a lasting football injury, and you can keep working. T&P is for players who can’t work at all. Some players qualify for Line of Duty first and T&P later as their health changes.
If you were placed in a lower category
A lower T&P category or amount can be appealed just like a denial. Moving from Inactive B to Inactive A more than doubles the monthly minimum. Learn about NFL disability appeals →
Frequently asked questions
How much is NFL Total and Permanent disability?
Monthly minimums range from $5,000 (Inactive B) to $22,084 (Active Football), and your benefit may be higher based on your credited seasons.
Do I need credited seasons for NFL T&P?
Players with fewer than three credited seasons must apply within 18 months of release. Players with three or more have more time.
Can I appeal my T&P category?
Yes. A lower category or amount can be appealed, usually within about 180 days of the decision.
Figures reflect the 2020 NFL–NFLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement and NFL Player Benefits materials as of 2026. The plan documents govern, and benefits can change. Legacy Pro Sports is not affiliated with the NFL, the NFLPA or the plans.
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