Reconsideration and Appeals: A Plain-English Roadmap After an OWCP Denial
Denied by OWCP under FECA? This guide explains how to read your decision letter, the three appeal routes (hearing/review of the written record, reconsideration, and ECAB), the key deadlines (30 days, 1 year, 180 days), what each option allows, and how to assemble strong medical evidence—so you can choose the right next step in DC/MD/VA.
First, read your decision letter—capture the facts
- What was denied: claim, a specific condition, a time period of disability, schedule award, etc.
- Why it was denied: common reasons include missing medical causation, insufficient rationale, timeliness, or lack of documentation.
- Your appeal rights: the letter lists the choices available to you and where to send each request.
- Deadlines: they run from the date on the decision, not the day you read it.
Keep this letter handy; every next step refers back to it.
Your three main paths (choose one to start)
1) Hearing or Review of the Written Record
- What it is: An oral hearing (you can testify) or a review of the written record (written evidence only) by the Branch of Hearings & Review.
- Deadline: 30 days from the date of the decision.
- Good for: When you want a hearing representative to re-evaluate the file and consider new evidence in a structured setting.
- Important: If you request reconsideration first, you generally lose the right to a hearing on that same decision.
2) Reconsideration (with the Claims Office)
- What it is: Ask OWCP to reopen and review the decision because you provide new, relevant evidence or a new legal argument showing error.
- Deadline: 1 year from the date of the decision; the request must be received within that year.
- How often: You may file again if each request includes truly new evidence or argument.
- Good for: Fixing evidence gaps—especially medical causation—without going to the appeals board.
3) ECAB Appeal (Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board)
- What it is: An appellate review by Board judges of the existing record at the time of the OWCP decision. No new evidence can be added.
- Deadline: 180 days from the OWCP final decision.
- Good for: Arguing that OWCP made a legal or factual error based on the record already in the file.
Deadlines at a glance
- Hearing or written review: 30 days
- Reconsideration: 1 year (received within one year)
- ECAB appeal: 180 days
Always confirm the exact dates in your decision letter.
Which option fits your situation?
- Choose Reconsideration if you can submit new medical rationale (for example, a detailed physician narrative that explains how the work event caused or aggravated the condition) or a new legal point.
- Choose a Hearing/Review if you want a hearing representative to reassess the case and you prefer testimony or a formal written review—but do this before filing reconsideration.
- Choose ECAB when you believe OWCP erred on the existing record and you don’t have new evidence to add.
Building a strong reconsideration package
- Target the denial reason. If the letter cites lack of causation, ask your treating physician for a clear narrative that explains the mechanism, objective findings, and a reasoned opinion linking the work event to the diagnosed condition.
- Submit relevant, new evidence. Examples: updated specialist reports; imaging with comparisons; therapy progress notes; clarified duty-status (CA-17) showing functional change; a corrected timeline.
- Write a brief cover letter. State the decision date, your OWCP file number, what standard you meet (new evidence or legal argument), and list each attachment.
- File correctly and on time. Follow the mailing or electronic instructions in your letter; ensure the request is received within one year.
What to expect if you request a hearing
- You’ll get a notice with the format (in person, phone, or video) and date.
- You may submit additional evidence; the record often remains open for a set period after the hearing for final submissions.
- A hearing representative issues a written decision after review.
ECAB basics before you file
- Include your name, contact information, OWCP case number, decision date(s), and your reasons for appeal.
- Understand that no new evidence is allowed; if you later obtain new records, send them to OWCP via reconsideration, not ECAB.
- Once ECAB has jurisdiction over the issue on appeal, OWCP generally will not issue a new decision on that same issue until the Board rules.
Practical timeline tips
- Put the 30-day, 1-year, and 180-day dates on your calendar the day you receive the decision.
- Request any needed medical records (imaging, therapy notes) now so you can meet your chosen deadline.
- If you start reconsideration, note you’re giving up the right to request a hearing on that decision (you may still go to ECAB later if needed).
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch paths?
You can use different options in sequence, except that a hearing cannot be held after you’ve requested reconsideration of the same decision.
How many reconsiderations can I file?
There’s no fixed number, but each request must include new, relevant evidence or argument—not repeats.
How long will ECAB take?
Timelines vary and are often longer than reconsideration. File within 180 days to preserve your rights.
Where do I send my request?
Follow the addresses and filing instructions in your appeal-rights section. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Bottom line for federal employees in DC/MD/VA
- Read the denial carefully, note why OWCP denied it, and calendar the 30-day / 1-year / 180-day dates.
- Choose the path that fits: hearing/review (30 days), reconsideration with new evidence (1 year), or ECAB appellate review (180 days).
- Center your case on a clear, reasoned medical narrative and timely, organized submissions.
Need help mapping your next step? Schedule a consultation in DC/MD/VA. Call our clinic or request an appointment online.
Educational guide—not legal advice. Always follow the instructions in your OWCP decision letter and current FECA procedures.
