Does the Length of Time Off Work Increase the Value of My Workers’ Comp Claim?
This is a very common misconception in federal workers’ compensation cases:
“If I stay off work longer, will my claim be worth more?”
The clear answer is no.
Federal workers’ comp does not have settlements.
Unlike other systems, federal workers’ compensation claims don’t settle for a lump sum. That means there’s no scenario where adding more time off increases a final “payout.”
So where does value actually come from?
In federal workers’ comp cases, value comes from two places:
Back pay owed for time you were medically unable to work (temporary total or similar compensation).
A Schedule Award, which compensates you later for permanent damage to a body part caused by the injury.
Time off work only affects the first category — the wages OWCP owes you for that specific period. It does not increase the value of a Schedule Award.
Staying off work can actually hurt you.
Bills pile up quickly when income stops. Clients sometimes believe staying off work strengthens their case, but it doesn’t. Instead, it often creates financial stress and puts you at the mercy of a slow-moving system.
Does going back to work ruin your case?
No.
Going back to work does not ruin your workers’ comp claim.
Retiring does not ruin your claim either.
Being off work is only relevant to determining whether you’re owed back pay — nothing more.
So what’s the best approach?
If your doctor says you can return to work, even in a limited capacity, doing so usually helps. It keeps your finances stable, reduces stress, and allows your workers’ comp case to proceed without your livelihood depending on OWCP timelines.
The takeaway:
Time off does not add value to a federal workers’ compensation claim. Medical evidence does. Permanent impairment does. If you can work, it’s often in your best interest to do so.
Every Schedule Award and compensation case is unique. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) does not publish fixed timelines or guaranteed outcomes. Benefits depend on your medical evidence, impairment rating, and OWCP’s review process. The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. For guidance on your specific claim, consult with an experienced federal workers’ compensation attorney.