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Schedule Award
Schedule Awards Under FECA
A schedule award is a benefit available under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) for certain permanent impairments caused by a work-related injury. It is separate from wage-loss benefits and is based on permanent loss of use or function in specific body parts recognized by the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP). Eligibility depends on the facts of the claim, the medical evidence, and the body part involved.
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The Differences
Compensating Injured Employees
A schedule award serves a different purpose than Continuation of Pay (COP) or wage-loss compensation. COP provides pay for eligible employees during an initial period after a traumatic injury. Wage-loss compensation may be available when an accepted work-related condition affects earning capacity. A schedule award compensates for permanent impairment to certain body parts recognized under FECA. It is based on the degree of permanent loss of use or function, not on time missed from work or current wage loss.
Understanding the Injury
A permanent injury alone does not automatically qualify for a schedule award. OWCP only allows schedule awards for specific body parts and functions listed in the law. For example, injuries affecting an arm, leg, hand, foot, hearing, or vision may be considered. Impairment of the spine or back itself does not qualify for a schedule award. However, a work-related spinal condition may support an award for resulting permanent impairment of an arm or leg.
Eligibility
Only specific body parts recognized under FECA may qualify for a schedule award after a permanent impairment.Medical Evidence
The claim must be supported by medical findings and an impairment rating that follows OWCP requirements.Separate Benefit
A schedule award generally cannot be paid for the same period as FECA wage-loss compensation for the same injury.Permanent Impairment
Awards are based on permanent loss of function, not simply the fact that an injury occurred.
Do I Qualify?
Key Factors in a Schedule Award
Each schedule award claim is evaluated on its own facts. OWCP reviews the medical and legal evidence contained in the file. Factors commonly considered include:
- The body part or function affected
- Whether the condition has reached maximum medical improvement
- The impairment rating provided by the evaluating physician
- Loss of motion, strength, or function
- The severity of the permanent impairment
- Whether more than one eligible body part is involved
- The medical records supporting the rating
- Applicable FECA and OWCP guidelines
Guidance on Schedule Awards
A permanent workplace injury can raise questions about future benefits and available options under FECA. Understanding whether a schedule award may be available requires a careful review of the claim file, medical records, and impairment evidence. Aumiller Lomax helps federal employees understand the workers' compensation process and evaluate potential benefits. If you have lasting effects from a work-related injury, contact our office for a free telephone consultation to discuss whether a schedule award may be available, even if you have returned to work.
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