Can Federal Employees Receive Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a crucial safety net for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, ensuring they receive the medical care and financial support they need during their recovery. But what about federal employees? Are they eligible for workers’ compensation benefits? The answer is yes. Federal employees are indeed covered under a specific program designed to address their unique employment circumstances.

Understanding Federal Employees’ Workers’ Compensation

Federal employees are covered by the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), which is administered by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) within the U.S. Department of Labor. Enacted in 1916, FECA provides comprehensive workers’ compensation coverage for civilian employees of the federal government, offering benefits for work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.

Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation under FECA

Federal employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under FECA if they meet certain criteria:

• Employment status: The individual must be a civilian federal employee. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary employees. It does not, however, cover military personnel, who have a separate system for handling work-related injuries.
• Work-related injury or illness: The injury or illness must have occurred while the employee was performing their job duties. This includes injuries sustained while traveling for work, participating in work-sponsored activities, or performing job-related tasks outside the regular workplace.
• Timely eeporting: The injury or illness must be reported promptly. Federal employees are required to notify their supervisor and file a claim with the OWCP as soon as possible. Delays in reporting can complicate the claims process and may result in a denial of benefits.

Types of Benefits Available under FECA

Federal employees who qualify for workers’ compensation under FECA can receive several types of benefits:

• Medical benefits: FECA covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the work injury or illness. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
• Wage replacement: If the injury or illness prevents the employee from working, FECA provides compensation for lost wages. This typically amounts to two-thirds of the employee’s regular pay, or three-fourths if the employee has dependents.
• Schedule awards: If the injury results in permanent impairment or loss of function in a body part, the employee may be eligible for a schedule award. This is a lump-sum payment based on the severity of the impairment.
• Vocational rehabilitation: FECA offers vocational rehabilitation services to help injured employees return to work. This can include job training, education, and assistance in finding suitable employment.
• Survivor benefits: In the unfortunate event of a work-related death, FECA provides benefits to the surviving spouse and dependents. This includes a monthly payment and a lump-sum payment for funeral expenses.

Filing a Claim under FECA

The process of filing a workers’ compensation claim under FECA involves several steps:

• Report the injury: Immediately report the injury or illness to your supervisor. They will provide you with the necessary forms to begin the claims process.
• Complete the forms: Fill out the required forms, such as Form CA-1 for traumatic injuries or Form CA-2 for occupational diseases. Your supervisor must also complete a portion of these forms.
• Submit the claim: Submit the completed forms to the OWCP. You may need to provide additional documentation, such as medical reports and witness statements.
• OWCP review: The OWCP will review your claim and make a determination. This process may involve requesting additional information or scheduling a medical examination.
• Receive benefits: If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving the appropriate benefits. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

Federal employees are indeed eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). By providing comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, wage replacement, and vocational rehabilitation, FECA ensures that injured federal employees receive the support they need to recover and return to work. Prompt reporting and proper documentation are crucial in securing these benefits.

If you are a federal employee who has suffered a work-related injury or illness, understanding your rights and the claims process under FECA can help you navigate this challenging time and secure the benefits you deserve. For more information or to speak to someone about your case, contact Shugarman & Mehring.