CA-1 · OWCP Form
Federal Employee's Notice of Traumatic Injury and Claim for Continuation of Pay/Compensation
The form for a single, identifiable injury event — a slip, a fall, a lifting accident, an assault.
Who Files
The injured federal employee files the CA-1. Your employing agency must complete its portion and forward to OWCP.
When to File
As soon as possible after the injury — ideally the same day. Notify your supervisor in writing and request the form. Late reporting is the most common reason claims get challenged.
Deadline
30 days to give written notice to your supervisor for Continuation of Pay (COP) eligibility. The hard FECA filing deadline is 3 years from the date of injury.
What the Form Does
Establishes that a traumatic injury occurred at work and starts the OWCP claim clock. If accepted within 14 days, you receive up to 45 days of Continuation of Pay (COP) — your regular salary, no leave used.
The Doctor's Role
Your treating physician documents the injury mechanism, diagnosis, and work-related causation. The first medical report sets the tone for the entire case — choose an OWCP credentialed doctor.
Common Mistakes That Delay Your Claim
- ✕Reporting verbally only — get it in writing
- ✕Skipping the CA-1 because the injury seems minor (claims worsen later)
- ✕Letting your supervisor file it on your behalf without keeping a copy
- ✕Using sick or annual leave instead of COP — you're giving up paid time
- ✕Forgetting to ask for a CA-16 authorization for the same-day medical visit
Where to Get the Official CA-1 Form
The official CA-1 form is published by the U.S. Department of Labor at dol.gov/agencies/owcp/FECA/forms. Your employing agency should also have copies on hand. We help you complete the form correctly during your visit.