The NFL 88 Plan helps former players and their families pay for the care that dementia, ALS and Parkinson’s disease require. It was created in 2006 and is named for Hall of Fame tight end John Mackey, who wore number 88 and lived with dementia before his death in 2011.
One of the most important features of the 88 Plan: players do not have to prove their condition was caused by football.
What the 88 Plan pays
The plan reimburses or pays eligible medical and custodial expenses related to the qualifying condition, such as:
- Care in an assisted living facility, memory care center or nursing home
- In-home custodial care
- Doctor visits
- Durable medical equipment
- Prescription medication
Who is eligible for the 88 Plan
- Former players who are vested under the NFL Player Retirement Plan
- A diagnosis of dementia, ALS or Parkinson’s disease, as determined by the 88 Plan
The 88 Plan is often handled by spouses and family members on the player’s behalf. If your loved one is showing signs of dementia, you don’t have to wait for him to start the process.
How the 88 Plan fits with other benefits
The 88 Plan can work alongside other NFL benefits, including pension and disability benefits. A player with a qualifying diagnosis may also be eligible for a concussion settlement award if he retired on or before July 7, 2014.
Players receiving the Neurocognitive Disability Benefit
The NFL Neurocognitive Disability Benefit and the 88 Plan often go hand in hand. The Neurocognitive benefit pays $4,500 a month for mild and $6,500 a month for moderate neurocognitive impairment, problems with memory, attention, processing speed or mood that are often early signs of a progressive condition.
If a player receiving the Neurocognitive benefit is later diagnosed with dementia, ALS or Parkinson’s disease, he may also qualify for the 88 Plan to help pay for his care. Here’s how the two benefits compare:
- Mild or moderate impairment
- $4,500–$6,500 a month in cash
- Apply within 7 years of release
- Determined by the Disability Plan’s neutral physicians
- Dementia, ALS or Parkinson’s
- Reimburses care: up to $185,000/yr facility, $165,000/yr at home
- Vested former players
- No proof that football caused it
For families, the testing and medical records from a Neurocognitive claim can document how a player’s condition has progressed, which can help support an 88 Plan application. If your loved one already receives the Neurocognitive benefit and his symptoms are worsening, ask his doctors about a dementia evaluation and contact NFL Player Benefits about the 88 Plan.
How to apply
- Gather medical records documenting the diagnosis.
- Contact NFL Player Benefits to request an 88 Plan application.
- Keep receipts and invoices for care expenses.
- Submit the application and follow up until a decision is made.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NFL 88 Plan?
A benefit that reimburses care expenses for vested former NFL players with dementia, ALS or Parkinson’s disease.
How much does the NFL 88 Plan pay?
Up to $185,000 a year for institutional care, up to $165,000 a year for at-home care, and up to $10,000 for burial expenses.
Do I have to prove football caused the condition?
No. The 88 Plan does not require proof that the condition was caused by playing football.
Can players receiving the Neurocognitive Disability Benefit get the 88 Plan?
They may. If a player receiving the Neurocognitive benefit is diagnosed with dementia, ALS or Parkinson’s disease and is vested, he may also qualify for 88 Plan care benefits.
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.
Contact us if you believe you may be eligible for filing a claim. Get your FREE, no-obligation consultation today!