The OWCP (Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs) Form CA-7 is used by federal employees to claim compensation for wage loss due to injury or illness. Here are five key things to know about this form:
1. Purpose of the Form
The CA-7 form is used to request compensation for wage loss resulting from a work-related injury or illness. This can include compensation for lost wages during periods of disability, as well as schedule awards for permanent impairment.
2. When to File
The CA-7 form should be filed when an employee has missed work due to a work-related injury or illness and wants to claim compensation for lost wages. It should be filed after the period of wage loss has occurred, not before.
3. Supporting Documentation
The form must be accompanied by appropriate medical documentation that substantiates the employee’s disability or need for compensation. This includes medical reports from a treating physician that detail the nature and extent of the injury or illness.
4. Sections of the Form
The form is divided into multiple sections that must be filled out carefully:
- Part A: Employee Information and Claim Details.
- Part B: Official Supervisor’s Report (must be completed by the supervisor).
- Part C: Additional information, if any, regarding the claim.
5. Timeliness and Filing Process
It is crucial to file the CA-7 form in a timely manner. Delays can result in delays in compensation payments. The form should be submitted to the employee’s supervisor, who will then forward it to the appropriate OWCP district office for processing.
Understanding these aspects of the CA-7 form can help ensure a smoother and more efficient process for claiming workers’ compensation.