What Are the Elements of a FECA Claim?
If you’re a federal employee injured on the job, you may be eligible for benefits under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). But before benefits are awarded, your claim must meet several key requirements. Understanding the elements of a FECA claim is critical to getting the compensation you deserve — and knowing where to get help can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down the core components of a FECA claim and show you how OWCPConnect.com can help you connect with a certified DOL-OWCP doctor near you — at no cost.
The 5 Essential Elements of a FECA Claim
To be approved, a FECA claim must satisfy five fundamental elements. These are used by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) to evaluate whether your injury qualifies for benefits.
1. Timely Filing
Your claim must be filed within three years of the injury or within 30 days for eligibility to receive Continuation of Pay (COP). For occupational diseases, the deadline starts when the employee becomes aware of the relationship between the condition and their work.
2. Federal Civilian Employment
You must be a civilian employee of the federal government at the time of the injury or illness. Military personnel are not covered under FECA.
3. Fact of Injury
There must be evidence that:
- A specific accident or incident occurred (factual injury), and
- A medical condition resulted (diagnosed by a qualified physician).
4. Performance of Duty
The injury must have occurred while performing official job duties. Injuries during commutes or breaks may not qualify unless directly related to work requirements.
5. Causal Relationship
This is often the most difficult to prove. A licensed physician must clearly state that the injury or illness was caused, aggravated, or accelerated by federal employment. The doctor’s narrative must be specific, supported by medical rationale, and aligned with OWCP standards.
Why Finding a Certified DOL Doctor Matters
Most FECA claims are denied due to lack of medical evidence or improperly completed forms. That’s why choosing a doctor who understands OWCP and FECA requirements is crucial.
Unfortunately, many local physicians don’t accept federal workers’ compensation or know how to navigate the system.
Need Help Finding a DOL-Certified Doctor?
That’s where OWCPConnect.com comes in.
OWCPConnect.com is a free resource that helps injured federal employees:
- Find DOL-OWCP certified doctors near them
- Get help with CA-1 and CA-2 claim forms
- Understand the steps of the FECA claims process
- Access clinics that bill the Department of Labor directly (no out-of-pocket cost)
Whether you’re just starting your claim or appealing a denial, OWCPConnect.com makes it easy to get the care and documentation you need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a FECA claim can feel overwhelming, but knowing the five required elements — and getting help from a qualified medical provider — puts you on the path to success. Don’t leave your claim to chance. Connect with a certified OWCP doctor today through OWCPConnect.com and take the first step toward recovery and compensation.