Navigating OWCP: A Federal Employee's Guide to Workers' Compensation Claims

Synopsis

Getting injured on the job as a federal employee is stressful. Navigating OWCP afterward can feel overwhelming, confusing, and isolating, especially when no one clearly explains what happens next. This book was written for federal workers who want straight answers. It breaks down how the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs actually evaluates claims, why so many valid cases are delayed or denied, and what injured employees can do early to protect their health, job, and income. Whether you are filing your first CA-1 or CA-2, dealing with a stalled or denied claim, or simply trying to understand your rights, this guide walks you through the process step by step in plain English. It explains how medical evidence is reviewed, why certain doctor notes help or hurt a case, and how job duties and documentation influence OWCP decisions. Written by someone who has experienced the system from both sides, first as a federal employee and later working closely with injured federal workers, this book focuses on avoiding the common mistakes that quietly derail claims. It is not legal advice. It is a practical, experience-based guide designed to help you take control of your OWCP case with clarity and confidence