Do I Need to Retire to Get a Schedule Award?

Do I need to retire to get a Schedule Award?

No — retirement isn’t required to qualify for a Schedule Award. What actually matters is whether you’re still receiving wage-loss compensation and whether your doctor says you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI).

So what does “not receiving compensation” mean?

It means you’re not collecting temporary total compensation or wage-loss earnings from OWCP. A Schedule Award pays for permanent impairment, not for time you’re still being paid for lost work.

When can I apply?

Once your doctor declares that you’ve reached MMI, you can start the process. Many federal employees file while they’re already back at work — some with the same agency, others after changing jobs.

What if I’m already retired?

That’s fine too. Retirement doesn’t disqualify you; it just isn’t required. The award depends on your medical documentation, not your employment status.

The bottom line:

You don’t have to wait until you retire. You just need to be medically stable and off wage-loss benefits. That’s when you can begin your Schedule Award claim.