What Percentage of My Schedule Award Does Your Firm Take?

If you’re comparing attorneys, the first question is natural: “What percentage do you take from my Schedule Award?” Here’s the straightforward answer: we don’t take a percentage. Under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), Schedule Award attorney fees are not contingency-based. Instead, fees are billed hourly and are reviewed/approved by OWCP for reasonableness.

So how are fees actually paid?

Under FECA, attorney fees are typically paid by the client, not “cut out” of your OWCP compensation. That’s why you’ll see hourly billing rather than a contingency split. OWCP reviews fee petitions to ensure the hours and rate are reasonable for the work performed.

What does that mean for the bottom line?

Because every claim is unique—different injuries, documentation needs, medical reports, and responses—there isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. In our experience, many clients find the total fee often lands around ~20% of the award, but that’s an observational benchmark, not a guaranteed percentage and not a contingency fee. Some cases require less attorney time; others require more (additional medical development, responses to OWCP, or appeals).

Why not work on contingency?

FECA’s rules are designed to keep representation tied to actual legal work performed and reviewed for reasonableness. Hourly billing, with OWCP oversight, aligns with that framework and helps ensure fees match the complexity of your case.

What should I do next?

If you’re weighing representation, ask about hourly rates, how fee petitions work, typical time required for cases like yours, and how your medical documentation looks today. The clearer your file, the fewer surprises—on timeline and cost.

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.