What to Do If You’re Injured on the Job as a Postal Worker or Federal Employee

When you’re a federal employee injured on the job, everything happens quickly and from all sides: the pain, the paperwork, the medical appointments, a supervisor who wants things handled quickly, and your ongoing concern that you might lose income. Federal workers feel this same pain and stress, whether the injury is sudden (traumatic) or the result of years of repetitive tasks.

Here’s the good news: you have rights, and the federal workers’ compensation system is built to protect you. You just need to know how to navigate the process correctly and with the right people to guide you.

First: Report Your Injury as Soon as Possible

Whether you slipped on a wet dock floor, strained your back while lifting trays, or developed knee, wrist, or shoulder problems over time, the first step is to properly report it. Tell your supervisor and complete the correct OWCP form. A CA-1 covers traumatic injuries, and a CA-2 covers conditions that build gradually. Reporting injuries as early as possible protects your benefits (your right to be paid) and ensures an official record. You may wish to register and file the forms online in the Employees’ Compensation Operations and Management Portal (ECOMP) to ensure everything is tracked electronically. If completing a form on paper, keep copies of everything you submit to your employer.

You have the right to choose your own doctor. OWCP requires very specific medical documentation that clearly connects your injury to your job. A doctor who doesn’t understand these rules can unintentionally cause a denial of benefits. It’s important to grasp that the right provider can make or break your claim.

Second: How to Get Paid if You Can’t Work

If your injury keeps you out of work, you may qualify for Continuation of Pay for up to 45 days under a CA-1. Longer recoveries or CA-2 claims may qualify for wage-loss compensation. You may also be offered modified duty employment, but you should never feel pressured to return before you’re medically cleared to do so.

Don’t Forget About Schedule Awards

Many injured workers don’t realize they may qualify for a schedule award if they have a permanent impairment of a covered body part. This benefit is separate from wage loss compensation and often goes unclaimed because employees don’t know it exists. It can be challenging to obtain maximum benefits if you do not know the proper process.

When It’s Time to Contact an Attorney

If your supervisor pushes back or your doctor doesn’t understand OWCP rules, your claim is delayed or denied, or your injury involves a third party, it’s wise to get help. If you believe you are entitled to a schedule award, you should seek assistance.

A knowledgeable federal workers’ compensation attorney can protect your job, your benefits, and your long-term recovery.

Contact the IFW Law Group to start the conversation with experts who have decades of combined experience in federal workers’ compensation representation.