In this section, you'll find information about filing and managing workers' compensation claims, medical documentation, continuation of pay, and returning to work after a job-related injury.
I was injured at work - what are my first steps and deadlines?
Get medical care, notify your supervisor right away, file the right claim in ECOMP (the Employees' Compensation Operations & Management Portal) as soon as possible (within 30 days is critical for Continuation of Pay), and provide CA-16/CA-17 forms as issued.
Resources: ecomp.dol.gov; Forms CA-1, CA-16, CA-17
Do I file a CA-1 or a CA-2?
File a CA-1 for a traumatic injury from a specific event within a single workday; file a CA-2 for an occupational disease developing over time. Only CA-1 traumatic injuries qualify for Continuation of Pay.
Resources: ecomp.dol.gov
How does the 45-day Continuation of Pay (COP) period work?
How do I file my claim in ECOMP?
Register at ecomp.dol.gov with your work email, select your agency, and file the CA-1 or CA-2. The system routes it to your supervisor for certification and then to OWCP.
Resources: ecomp.dol.gov
What medical documentation does my claim need?
OWCP requires evidence with a diagnosis, findings, treatment, and a reasoned opinion connecting the condition to the specific work event. The CA-17 duty status report keeps your agency informed of restrictions.
Resources: Form CA-17
Should I use COP or sick leave while my claim is pending?
For a traumatic injury filed within 30 days, elect COP. If unavailable, use sick/annual leave and, if approved, request a leave buy-back (CA-7b) so it's restored.
Resources: Form CA-7b
Can I choose my own physician for a work injury?
Yes—The Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) gives you the right to your initial choice of a qualified physician, with some exclusions. Changing physicians later requires OWCP approval.
Resources: dol.gov/agencies/owcp/FECA
My claim was denied - how do I appeal?
The denial letter lists appeal rights and deadlines: an oral hearing/review (30 days), reconsideration with new evidence (1 year), or review by the Employees' Compensation Appeals Board.
Resources: dol.gov/agencies/owcp; ECAB
What's the return-to-work process after an injury?
Your physician documents capabilities on the CA-17; the agency identifies full or limited/light duty consistent with restrictions. Accepting suitable light duty is generally required to keep compensation flowing.
Resources: Form CA-17
How does an OWCP claim affect my retirement and benefits?
While on compensation rolls, FEHB and FEGLI generally continue, and time on compensation is usually creditable toward retirement if you return to duty. At retirement age you must elect between OWCP compensation and your OPM annuity.
Resources: dol.gov/agencies/owcp; opm.gov/retirement-center
What is a schedule award and how do I file?
A schedule award compensates for permanent impairment of a covered body part after maximum medical improvement, paid for a set number of weeks. File form CA-7 with an impairment rating from your physician.
Resources: Form CA-7