FAQs

Federal workers’ compensation provides benefits to eligible federal employees who are injured on the job or develop a work-related medical condition. Depending on the claim, benefits may include wage-loss compensation, medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation, and other covered benefits under federal law.

FECA stands for the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act. It is the law that governs workers’ compensation benefits for federal employees. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) administers FECA claims.

The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) is the federal agency responsible for reviewing and administering FECA claims. OWCP determines whether a claim is accepted and what benefits, if any, are payable under the law.

While every claim is different, the process generally includes these steps:

• Report the injury or illness to your supervisor
• Complete the appropriate claim form: CA-1 for a traumatic injury that happened during one incident or from repetitive movement during one shift, or CA-2 for an occupational illness or condition that developed over time
• Submit the required forms and supporting documentation
• Provide medical evidence connecting your condition to your federal employment
• Respond to any OWCP requests for additional information
• Receive a decision from OWCP regarding your claim

If a claim is denied, several review and appeal options may be available.

OWCP evaluates several factors when reviewing a claim, including:

• Whether you are a covered federal employee.
• Whether the claim was filed within the applicable deadlines.
• Whether the claimed incident or exposure occurred and a medical condition has been diagnosed.
• Whether the injury occurred in the performance of duty.
• Whether the medical evidence connects the diagnosed condition to the employment incident or exposure.

Each claim is reviewed on its own facts and supporting evidence.

The general filing period is three years, but the starting date and any exceptions depend on the circumstances. For occupational disease claims, awareness of the connection to work and the date of last exposure may affect when that period begins. Eligibility for Continuation of Pay (COP) after a traumatic injury generally requires filing Form CA-1 within 30 days of the injury and beginning to lose time from work because of the injury within 45 days. Notify your employer and file in writing as soon as possible.

The duration of benefits depends on the type of claim, the medical evidence, and OWCP's ongoing evaluation of eligibility. Some benefits are short-term, while others may continue longer if the evidence supports ongoing entitlement.

A schedule award is compensation available for permanent impairment involving certain body parts or functions covered under FECA. Eligibility depends on medical evidence and the impairment rating process established by OWCP.

Yes, if you qualify for both programs. FECA payments may reduce the amount of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payable under Social Security’s workers’ compensation offset rules. OWCP does not reduce FECA compensation simply because SSDI is awarded. Different rules apply to Social Security retirement benefits.

Federal workers’ compensation benefits are generally not subject to federal income tax. Continuation of Pay (COP), however, is regular salary and remains taxable. Different rules may apply when other disability-related benefits are also being received. Individuals with tax questions should consult a qualified tax professional.