Who Qualifies for Federal Workers' Compensation Death Benefits
Federal workers who die as a direct result of a job‑related injury or illness are eligible for death benefits under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA). The benefit is payable to the deceased employee's legally recognized dependent(s) or, if no dependents exist, to the employee's estate. To qualify, the death must be proven to be work‑related, typically through a medical evaluation and a death certificate that lists the cause of death as an occupational injury or disease.
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Amount of the Benefit
Under FECA, the maximum death benefit is $20,000. The amount is paid as a lump sum to the named beneficiary or estate. In certain circumstances, such as when the death is the result of a catastrophic workplace incident covered by a specific federal program, a higher benefit may be available, but the standard cap remains $20,000.
When the Benefit Is Paid
The payment schedule is straightforward: once the claim is approved, the benefit is disbursed in a single payment. The approval process typically takes 30 to 90 days, depending on the completeness of the documentation and any appeals that may arise. Beneficiaries receive the funds after the final determination of work‑related status is made by the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Workers' Compensation Division.
How to File a Claim
Claimants must submit a written request to the OPM Workers' Compensation Division, including the deceased employee's Social Security number, a copy of the death certificate, and any medical records linking the death to the workplace incident. The claim form, FECA‑1, is available on the OPM website. Once received, the OPM reviews the evidence, may request additional information, and then issues a final determination. If the claim is denied, the beneficiary may appeal the decision within 30 days of the denial notice.
Additional Support Resources
Beneficiaries should also contact their agency's human resources office for guidance on filing the claim and for assistance with any administrative requirements. In some cases, state workers' compensation programs may provide supplemental benefits if the federal employee was also covered by a state plan. Consulting an attorney experienced in federal workers' compensation can help navigate complex claims and ensure all eligible benefits are secured.