Filing a Federal Injury Claim Shouldn’t Be Confusing — Let Us Help
Workplace injuries can happen suddenly or develop gradually over time. If you’re a federal employee, the process for reporting your injury is very different from that of private-sector workers. You’ll need to file a claim through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), using either Form CA-1 or Form CA-2.
But how do you know which one to use? What happens if you make a mistake? And who’s responsible for what?
At Rebound Clinics DMV, we specialize in helping federal employees across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area take the right first steps when filing OWCP claims. Whether you need to file a CA-1 or CA-2, we’ll walk you through it—from documentation and form completion to long-term care planning.
Understanding the Basics: What Are CA-1 and CA-2 Forms?
Before you file, it’s important to understand the difference between these two key OWCP forms.
What is Form CA-1?
Form CA-1 is used to report a traumatic injury—something that happens in a single incident at a specific time and place. Examples include:
- Slipping and falling in your agency’s parking lot
- Straining your back while lifting a heavy object
- Cutting your hand with office equipment
- Getting injured during a security or field operation
This form should be submitted within 30 days of the injury to qualify for Continuation of Pay (COP), and no later than three years from the date of the incident for OWCP eligibility.
What is Form CA-2?
Form CA-2 is used to report an occupational disease or illness, which is caused by exposure or strain over time. Examples include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive typing or sorting
- Hearing loss due to long-term noise exposure
- Respiratory conditions from prolonged chemical exposure
- Chronic joint pain from repeated movement or standing
This form should be filed as soon as you’re aware of your condition and its connection to your job—and always within the OWCP’s three-year limit from the date of awareness.
Common Challenges in Filing CA-1 and CA-2 Forms
Filing a federal injury claim isn’t always as simple as filling out a form. The process requires precision, documentation, and often guidance. Here are some of the most common challenges federal employees face:
- Not knowing which form to use
- Missing critical filing deadlines
- Submitting incomplete or unclear medical documentation
- Using a physician unfamiliar with OWCP requirements
- Not understanding the rights tied to each form (like COP or a CA-16)
Even if the injury or illness is legitimate, a small mistake can delay or derail your benefits.
How Rebound Clinics DMV Can Help
We’ve helped hundreds of federal workers across agencies like USPS, TSA, DHS, federal law enforcement, and administrative offices file successful OWCP claims.
Here’s how we make the process smoother:
1. Form Guidance and ECOMP Setup
We walk you through the exact steps to file your CA-1 or CA-2 form using ECOMP, the Department of Labor’s online portal. We help you:
- Set up your ECOMP profile
- Upload supporting documents
- Track deadlines and submissions
2. OWCP-Compliant Medical Documentation
Most claim denials come down to documentation. We ensure your file includes:
- A clear, specific diagnosis
- A strong explanation of how your condition is related to your job duties
- A treatment plan supported by objective findings
- Work status recommendations (like duty restrictions)
Our doctors are trained in OWCP standards and understand how to write medical narratives that meet those requirements.
3. Help Requesting a CA-16
If you’re filing a CA-1 within 7 days of the injury, you may be eligible for a CA-16 form, which guarantees payment for medical treatment for 60 days. We help you and your agency complete this time-sensitive request properly.
4. Follow-Up and Long-Term Care
We don’t just help with paperwork. We provide the actual medical care you need—physical therapy, chiropractic care, injury recovery programs, and referrals—while continuing to support your claim with updated documentation as needed.
What to Expect After You File
Once your CA-1 or CA-2 is submitted, OWCP will review your claim. During this process, it’s important to:
- Attend all medical appointments
- Keep copies of all records submitted through ECOMP
- Stay in communication with your claims examiner
- Comply with treatment and work restrictions
If your claim is approved, OWCP may cover:
- All related medical treatment
- Time off work (if COP or wage-loss benefits apply)
- A Schedule Award if there’s permanent impairment
If it’s denied, don’t panic. We help with reconsideration requests and ensure that your appeal includes the strongest possible evidence.
Our Locations Across the DMV Area
With several locations throughout the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia region, our clinics are easily accessible to federal workers in need of care and claims support:
- Greenbelt, MD – 7701 Greenbelt Rd, Suite 104
- Hyattsville, MD – 2045 University Blvd E, Suite 202
- Temple Hills, MD – Serving the Southeast DMV region
- Wheaton, MD – Convenient for Montgomery County employees
- Falls Church, VA – Supporting Northern Virginia workers
- Laurel, MD – A central location for commuters
Each clinic is staffed with OWCP-experienced professionals who understand the system and prioritize your needs.
When to Contact Us
If you’re unsure whether to file a CA-1 or CA-2, or you’ve already started a claim and feel overwhelmed, now is the time to get help. You don’t need to go through this alone.
We recommend calling us if:
- You’ve been injured or diagnosed with a job-related condition
- You’re unsure which form to file or when
- Your claim was denied or delayed
- You need a second opinion or clearer documentation
- You want guidance from start to finish
Conclusion
Filing a CA-1 or CA-2 doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right support, you can confidently protect your health and your federal benefits. At Rebound Clinics DMV, we’re proud to stand alongside the federal workforce—offering expert medical care and complete OWCP guidance every step of the way.
If you need help filing your claim or just want to make sure you’re on the right track, we’re here for you.
Call (301) 798-9188 or visit reboundclinicsdmv.com to schedule your consultation today.