When It Comes to OWCP Claims, Timing Is Everything
Filing a federal workers’ compensation claim is not just about filling out the right forms—it’s about doing it on time. Missing key deadlines could mean losing benefits, delaying treatment, or having your claim denied altogether.
If you’re a federal employee injured on the job, understanding the timeline for submitting forms and medical evidence to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) is essential. At Rebound Clinics DMV, we help federal workers across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. stay ahead of deadlines, file properly, and protect their rights from day one.
Why OWCP Deadlines Matter
The OWCP uses strict deadlines to evaluate claims, approve compensation, and authorize treatment. These timelines aren’t flexible—and failing to meet them can have real consequences.
Missing even one filing date may result in:
- Loss of Continuation of Pay (COP)
- Delayed or denied medical treatment
- A permanently closed claim
- The inability to file for reconsideration or appeal
Fortunately, with the right guidance, most of these deadlines are manageable.
Key Deadlines Every Federal Worker Should Know
Here are the most important deadlines when filing an OWCP claim:
1. Report Your Injury Immediately
As soon as an injury occurs—or as soon as you become aware of a work-related illness—report it to your supervisor. Verbal notice is fine at first, but follow up in writing. Prompt reporting helps preserve your eligibility for benefits and starts the claim process correctly.
2. File Form CA-1 Within 30 Days
If you’ve suffered a traumatic injury (a specific event like a fall or sprain), you must file Form CA-1 within 30 days of the injury to qualify for Continuation of Pay (COP)—which provides up to 45 days of pay while you recover.
Filing within 3 years is still acceptable for overall eligibility, but missing the 30-day COP window could cost you financially.
3. File Form CA-2 as Soon as Possible
If your injury developed over time (like repetitive stress or exposure to chemicals), file Form CA-2 as soon as you know your condition is job-related. While the legal deadline is also 3 years, early filing makes the process faster and more straightforward.
4. Request a CA-16 Within 7 Days (for CA-1 Injuries)
The CA-16 form authorizes treatment and guarantees payment for up to 60 days. It must be requested within 7 calendar days of a traumatic injury. After that, your agency is not obligated to issue it.
We help you request and complete the CA-16 before time runs out.
5. Submit Medical Evidence Within 10 Workdays (for COP)
To maintain your eligibility for Continuation of Pay, OWCP requires that you submit medical evidence within 10 workdays of filing the CA-1. This documentation must show that your injury prevents you from performing your job duties.
At Rebound Clinics DMV, we help you meet this requirement with fast, clear, OWCP-compliant medical reports.
6. File for Reconsideration Within 12 Months
If your claim is denied, you have 12 months from the denial date to file for reconsideration. Strong documentation and timely submission are key to overturning the decision.
How Rebound Clinics DMV Helps You Stay On Track
Our clinics specialize in treating and supporting federal employees injured on the job. We go beyond medical care by helping you manage your claim with precision and peace of mind.
Here’s how we help:
- Prompt medical evaluations to document your injury as early as possible
- Timely completion and delivery of CA-16, CA-17, and medical narratives
- Guidance through ECOMP, the online filing system for federal injury claims
- Deadline tracking so nothing falls through the cracks
- Appeal support if your claim is delayed or denied
We act quickly to get the forms you need, file them properly, and communicate with your agency and OWCP when necessary.
Clinics Conveniently Located Across the DMV
We serve injured federal workers throughout the DC metro area with clinics in:
- Greenbelt, MD: 7701 Greenbelt Road, Suite 104, Greenbelt, MD 20770
- Hyattsville, MD: 2045 University Blvd East, Suite 202, Hyattsville, MD 20783
- Temple Hills, MD: 3611 Branch Avenue, Suite 303, Temple Hills, MD 20748
- Wheaton, MD: 11510 Georgia Ave, Suite 233, Wheaton, MD 20902
- Falls Church, VA: 105 N. Virginia Ave, Suite 309, Falls Church, VA 22046
- Laurel, MD: 9101 Cherry Ln, Suite 205, Laurel, MD 20708
Each clinic is staffed by providers who understand OWCP standards and prioritize helping you meet every critical deadline.
What Happens If You Miss a Deadline?
If you’ve already missed a deadline, don’t panic—but don’t wait, either.
There are often options for:
- Late justification (if your agency failed to notify you properly)
- Appeals or reconsideration
- Filing an occupational claim if symptoms develop later
Our team can review your case, assess your options, and help you move forward with a recovery and documentation plan that puts you back on track.
Conclusion: Early Action Leads to Better Outcomes
Injuries happen—but so do mistakes. The best way to protect your benefits is to act early, stay informed, and partner with professionals who understand the OWCP system inside and out.
At Rebound Clinics DMV, we believe no injured federal employee should have to figure this out alone. We’ll help you meet every deadline, file every form, and recover with confidence.
Call (301) 798-9188 or visit reboundclinicsdmv.com to schedule your consultation today.
Let’s make sure your recovery—and your paperwork—are right on time.
