OWCP Claims Process Explained: Complete Guide for Federal Employees (2025)

Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini

Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris and Gini, featuring special guests Jennifer and Emmy from Federal Injury Centers. This episode provides an inside look at what happens when you call a Federal Injury Center's office for the first time and walks through the complete OWCP claims process.

Featured Guests

• Jennifer - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchises
• Emmy - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchises

Key Topics Covered

Filing Your Initial Claim

• How to create an eCom account on ecom.dl.gov
• Filing CA-1 (traumatic injury) or CA-2 (occupational disease) claims
• The supervisor's role in the process
• Getting your case file number within 5 days

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Biggest mistake: Not reporting the injury immediately to someone
• Documenting incorrect information (wrong dates, personal details)
• Not electing Continuation of Pay (COP)
• Rushing through paperwork without double-checking

The FIC Intake Process

• Detailed one-hour intake interview
• Comprehensive injury description gathering
• Medical records collection
• DOL document review

After Filing Your Claim

• Understanding development letters vs. denials
• The 60-day response period
• What happens during your medical appointment
• Work status forms and restrictions

Appeals and Reconsiderations

• Why FIC prefers reconsideration over other appeal methods
• Unlimited reconsideration attempts within 12 months
• Success rate of over 95% claim acceptance

Schedule Awards

• Eligibility requirements (must be back to full duty or retired)
• Cannot receive dual OWCP benefits simultaneously
• No time limit - can file as long as you're alive

Special Situations Discussed

• Hearing loss claims
• Air Marshal specific forms
• Rural carrier vs. other postal crafts
• Multiple case scenarios

Upcoming Events

• Las Vegas Open House: July 22nd, 4-6 PM with Dr. Hawkins
• Birmingham Visit: July 30th with Dr. Harper

Key Takeaways

• Report injuries immediately, even if pain seems minor
• Take time to carefully complete all paperwork
• Federal Injury Centers has helped over 10,000 people get claims accepted
• The medical narrative is crucial for claim approval
• Supervisors have limited power in the claims process

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for federal employees navigating the OWCP claims process from initial injury through potential appeals.

Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com
Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook
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Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini