How Long Does It Take to Get a Schedule Award in the Federal Employees’ Compensation System?

If you are a federal employee injured on the job, one of the most common questions is: how long does it take to get a Schedule Award? The answer depends on several important factors.

First, you must be back to work or off of wage-loss compensation for more than 60 days before you are eligible. This waiting period is built into the rules of the federal employees’ compensation system.

Second, timing depends on whether you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). OWCP requires medical evidence that your condition has stabilized and that a doctor can provide a final impairment rating. Without MMI, your claim cannot move forward.

Finally, once medical documentation is ready, the paperwork process begins. Depending on the complexity of the case, OWCP’s review, and whether additional medical exams are requested, processing can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.

Because every claim is unique, it is important to focus on strong medical documentation and complete paperwork to help avoid unnecessary delays. While it is impossible to know the exact timeline in advance, being prepared increases the likelihood of smoother processing.

Every Schedule Award case is unique. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) does not publish fixed timelines or guaranteed amounts. Outcomes 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.