Feds: Understanding FECA Coverage and Benefits

The Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) is a federal law designed to offer support to federal employees who experience work-related injuries or illnesses. Administered by the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) within the Department of Labor, FECA has been providing these benefits since its enactment in 1916 and has been updated over time to keep pace with workforce changes and medical advancements.

FECA is vital in supporting federal employees by providing wage replacement, medical care, and vocational assistance, thereby helping them recover and re-enter the workforce. The goal of FECA is help Federal employees injured on the job return to work successfully when they are medically able to do so.

The success of FECA for Federal Employees has been overwhelming. In fact, according to the DOL website explaining what the FECA program does:

"In FY 2023, over 112,000 new FECA cases were created. In its corresponding chargeback year, the program provided $2.761 billion in benefits to more than 184,000 workers and survivors for work-related injuries or illnesses. Of these benefits payments, over $1.893 billion was for wage-loss compensation, $760 million for medical and rehabilitation services, and $108 million for death benefits payments to surviving dependents. In addition, the program paid over $502 million in 2,534 cases under the War Hazards Compensation Act (WHCA)."

FECA also provides to the injured Federal worker the right to reclaim their job within one year of the onset of wage loss.

Services Federal Employees Receive from FECA

FECA is charged with prompt resolution of injured Federal Employees compensation claim. Additionally, FECA promises prompt payment of medical bills, payment of compensation including where medical evidence suggests disability for work, and assistance in returning to work.

Key Benefits Under FECA

• Wage Replacement: FECA ensures wage replacement for federal employees who are unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness. Typically, this benefit amounts to two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage, with a cap set by law.

• Medical Benefits: FECA covers medical treatment, prescription drugs, and other related expenses for work-related injuries or illnesses. In some cases, it also covers transportation costs for medical appointments.

• Vocational Rehabilitation: For those unable to return to their previous positions due to their injury or illness, FECA provides vocational rehabilitation services. These may include job training, placement assistance, and other support to facilitate a career transition.

• Survivor Benefits: If a federal employee dies due to a work-related injury or illness, FECA offers benefits to their survivors. This can include a lump-sum payment as well as ongoing wage replacement and medical benefits.

Key Features of FECA

• No-Fault System: FECA operates on a no-fault basis, meaning federal employees do not need to prove employer negligence to receive benefits. They only need to demonstrate that their injury or illness was work-related.

For those who cannot return to work, FECA offers continued support to ensure financial stability and access to healthcare. As a crucial safety net, FECA plays an essential role in safeguarding the health and well-being of the federal workforce.

Navigating the OWCP claims process can be made easier with the help of a Federally credentialed doctor or clinic. These clinics may offer free evaluation and you may be able to begin treatment while your case is being adjudicated in many instances.