US Department of Labor Office of Workers' Compensation Programs

What the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs Does

The US Department of Labor Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) administers compensation for federal employees who suffer job-related injuries, illnesses, or deaths. It manages several distinct programs that provide wage replacement, medical treatment, and rehabilitation services. The office also oversees claims filed by survivors of deceased federal workers and ensures that eligible individuals receive benefits under statutes such as the Federal Employees' Compensation Act and the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act.

OWCP does not handle private-sector workers' compensation claims. Its jurisdiction is limited to federal employees, certain contractors, and specific categories of individuals covered by federal statutes. The office works with agencies across the government to process claims, approve medical treatment, and manage return-to-work efforts.

Major Divisions and Programs Under OWCP

OWCP is organized into several divisions, each responsible for a specific compensation program:

• Division of Federal Employees' Compensation (DFEC): Handles claims under FECA for civilian federal employees.
• Division of Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation (DEEOIC): Manages claims under Part E of the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act for DOE contractors.
• Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation (DLHWC): Administers the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act for maritime and waterfront workers.
• Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation (DCMWC): Oversees claims under the Black Lung Benefits Act for coal miners.
• Office of Workers' Compensation Programs Field Offices: Provide local intake, processing, and customer service.

Who Is Eligible

Eligibility depends on the specific program. Generally, covered individuals include:

• Civilian federal employees injured on the job or who develop a occupational illness.
• Employees of the U.S. Postal Service, which is treated as a federal entity under FECA.
• Department of Energy contractors and subcontractors exposed to radiation or toxic substances.
• Longshoremen, harbor workers, and certain maritime employees covered under the Longshore Act.
• Coal miners and survivors seeking black lung benefits.
• Survivors of federal employees who died as a result of a compensable injury or illness.

How to File a Claim

Claimants typically begin by submitting Form CA-1, CA-2, or CA-2a through their agency's safety office or directly to the appropriate OWCP district office. The form must include details about the injury or illness, the date and location of the incident, and supporting medical documentation. OWCP assigns a claims examiner who reviews the evidence, consults with medical advisors if needed, and issues a decision on compensation and medical benefits.

The process can vary in length depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of medical evidence. OWCP provides online portals and toll-free numbers to help claimants track the status of their filings and respond to requests for additional information.

Benefits and Services Available

OWCP programs may provide a range of benefits, including:

• Compensation for lost wages during periods of disability.
• Payment of reasonable and necessary medical expenses.
• Vocational rehabilitation and retraining for workers who cannot return to their previous duties.
• Death benefits and survivor payments to eligible family members.
• Schedule awards for permanent physical impairments.

Contact and Resources

OWCP maintains district offices across the United States, and its website offers forms, instructions, and contact directories. Claimants can also reach the office by phone or mail for assistance with filings, status inquiries, and appeals. The office publishes guidance documents to help federal agencies and injured workers understand their rights and responsibilities under each compensation statute.