Report all on-the job injuries to your supervisor and get medical attention right away-even for minor injuries. Do not turn down the opportunity for medical treatment immediately after an injury - in most cases you will need to give your agency medical documentation within 10 days. For a traumatic injury, be sure to file a claim within 30 days to protect your right to the “Continuation of Pay” benefit. Occupational illnesses or diseases have different timelines and requirements. Please understand that reporting your injury is not the same as filing a claim, which requires additional action by the injured worker.

Use Form CA-1 for a specific traumatic injury (single event) and CA-2 for occupational diseases or illnesses that develop over time. File a claim electronically in the OWCP’s “ECOMP” system at www.ecomp.dol.gov, or on a paper form you can get from your supervisor, your union, or download online at www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/FECA/regs/compliance/forms.  If you use a paper form, keep a copy, and get a receipt. Follow up with your supervisor and confirm it is also submitted to your agency’s Occupational Health department and OWCP, whether electronically or otherwise, and get verification.

Legal representation is not a requirement. Seeking advice about your claim helps you understand how to best respond to OWCP requests for information and documentation, and often, will help you decide whether you want to have legal representation. Many  OWCP claimants are unrepresented. However, if your claim has been denied, or delayed, or  you have to response to a  Job Offer, or OWCP has proposed to reduce or terminate your benefits, legal guidance is often critical.

Denials are common. Many denials can be successfully challenged with proper medical evidence and documentation. A legal consultation helps you know what type of appeal to file, and what evidence is needed to maximize your chance for a successful appeal outcome. This is especially true if you believe that you submitted all possible information to OWCP, and your claim was still denied.

We offer free Initial Consultations. Fee arrangements are discussed clearly during the consultation. All agreements for representation include fee information and are in writing.

Yes. Legal review helps identify problems with your claim before OWCP makes a decision. After the claim is approved, legal advice can be crucial, for example: if you expect to be off work more than 45 days - if your injury will prevent you from returning to your regular job duties even after you heal -if OWCP is sending you to a SECOND OPINION or REFEREE examination- and more.