How Do I Get Paid for My Time Off Under Federal Workers’ Comp?
This is a question almost every injured federal employee asks at some point: “How do I actually get paid for the time I’m missing from work?”
The short answer people often hear is: fill out a CA-7 form.
The real answer is: it’s more complicated than that.
What does the CA-7 actually do?
The CA-7 is the form you submit to request wage-loss compensation for time you’re unable to work because of your injury. But filing the form alone doesn’t guarantee payment.
What OWCP really needs
To approve payment, OWCP must have medical evidence explaining why you can’t perform your job. That means your doctor has to do more than say you’re hurt. They need to:
explain your diagnosis,
describe your functional limitations, and
clearly connect those limitations to why you can’t perform your specific job duties.
The wording matters. The documentation matters. And missing or vague language can result in delays or denials.
Why people run into trouble
Many claims stall because the medical report doesn’t say enough, or doesn’t say things in a way OWCP accepts. The system is technical, and unfortunately, it doesn’t give much leeway for incomplete explanations.
What should you do if payment is delayed or denied?
This is where experienced guidance can help. Knowing what OWCP looks for — and how doctors need to phrase restrictions and disability — can make the difference between getting paid and getting stuck waiting.
Getting paid for time off isn’t automatic, but with the right documentation and approach, it is achievable.
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.