When you’re hurt at work, your first thought isn’t always about your injury; it’s often about finances. How are you going to pay bills? What’s going to happen to your job? If you make a federal workers’ comp claim, will your boss get mad? How do you even make a claim? It’s a stressful time, but don’t worry—laws are in place to protect both you and your employer, so the only thing you have to worry about is getting better.
Before you begin the process of making a federal workers’ comp claim, here are a few things you should know about the program.
How to Start Your Federal Workers’ Comp Claim
The federal workers’ comp benefits program doesn’t follow all the same rules and processes as normal state-run workers’ comp programs. Instead of filing through your state, the United States Department of Labor and the Division of Federal Employees’ Compensation (DFEC) will manage your claim, since you’re a federal employee.
Before you apply, you should have a good understanding of what paperwork you need to begin the process. This will help you stay on track and meet every filing deadline.
#1 – For A Work-Related Illness, File Form CA-2
If you’ve suffered from a work-related illness you should fill out a “Notice of Occupational Disease and Claim for Compensation” also known as form CA-2.
#2 – If You Have a Work-Related Injury, File Form CA-1
Did your injury happen while doing your usual work tasks? Then you should file form CA-1,“Federal Employee’s Notice of Traumatic Injury and Claim for Continuation of Pay/Compensation.”
You should also submit these documents in a timely manner to the appropriate division handling your claim.
#3 – Eligible Employees Who May File a Federal Workers’ Comp Claim
Federal workers’ comp benefits are not available to all federal employees. Certain departments have their own compensation programs that have been established due to the nature of work. Employees who hold these jobs must file through their designated workers’ compensation fund. The following jobs fall into this category:
- Railroad workers
- Harbor workers
- Energy employees
- Miners who suffered from black lung
- Employees contracted by the government (must apply through the state)
If you are a federal worker with one of these occupations, you can find more resources about how to apply the Department of Labor website. All other federal employees with on-the-job injuries may apply for benefits through the governmental program.
#4 – What Federal Workers’ Comp Benefits are Available?
Many injured employees worry about making ends meet while managing their medical issues. This makes federal workers’ comp coverage one of the most crucial elements of the process. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, federal workers with approved claims may receive compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Wage replacement
- Vocational training
- Other benefits
You May Qualify for Legal Assistance
All workers’ compensation applications have the right to secure legal aid when applying for benefits. Many people find this help handy when they have a complicated claim or after they’re denied benefits. In fact, we can connect you with a workers’ compensation attorney near you to get free claim help by phone today.
Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to start your free online benefits evaluation now!
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Megan Kelly is a former blogger and copywriter for LeadingResponse.