What Is the 45-Day Rule for OWCP?

If you’re a federal employee who’s been injured on the job, understanding the 45-Day Rule under the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) is critical. This rule can directly impact your wage loss benefits and your ability to recover without financial stress.

Understanding the 45-Day Rule

The 45-Day Rule applies to traumatic injury claims filed using Form CA-1. When you file a CA-1 and your injury is accepted as a traumatic injury, you may be eligible for Continuation of Pay (COP) for up to 45 calendar days. This means you continue receiving your regular salary while you’re unable to work—without using your own sick or annual leave.

Key Points About the 45-Day Rule:

  • Covers traumatic injuries only (single incident injuries occurring at a specific time and place).
  • You must file Form CA-1 within 30 days of the injury to qualify for COP.
  • The 45-day period is calendar days, not business days.
  • If you return to work and then need more time off for the same injury, your remaining COP days can be used until the 45-day limit is reached.

After the 45 days, if you’re still unable to work, you may transition to wage loss compensation through OWCP, but this requires medical evidence and additional claim steps.

Why the 45-Day Rule Matters

Many injured federal workers aren’t aware of this benefit and end up using their own leave unnecessarily. By knowing your rights under OWCP, you can protect your income while focusing on recovery.

Expert OWCP Help in Jacksonville, FL

Navigating OWCP rules can be tricky, and mistakes in the claims process can cost you time and money. Federal Injury Centers of Jacksonville, FL specializes in helping injured federal employees:

  • File claims correctly and on time.
  • Provide thorough medical documentation to support your case.
  • Maximize your benefits under OWCP.

With certified OWCP doctors and a team that understands the 45-Day Rule, Federal Injury Centers of Jacksonville ensures you get the treatment and benefits you deserve—with no out-of-pocket costs for accepted OWCP claims.

If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t risk losing your benefits. Call Federal Injury Centers of Jacksonville today to schedule your no-cost OWCP consultation and get back on the road to recovery.