Legal Definitions - Office of Workers' Compensation Programs

The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) is a division within the U.S. Department of Labor. Its primary role is to administer and process claims for workers' compensation benefits under several federal laws. This means OWCP is responsible for reviewing, deciding, and managing compensation claims for specific groups of workers, including federal employees, longshore and harbor workers, and coal miners suffering from work-related illnesses.

Here are some examples illustrating the function of the OWCP:

• Imagine Sarah, a federal park ranger, is on duty patrolling a national park when she falls and injures her knee. Because she is a federal employee, her claim for medical treatment and lost wages due to this work-related injury would be filed with and processed by the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. OWCP would review her claim to determine eligibility for benefits under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act.

• Consider David, who works as a stevedore, loading and unloading cargo from ships at a major port. While operating heavy machinery, he suffers a serious hand injury. Since his work falls under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, David would submit his claim for medical expenses and disability benefits to the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, which is tasked with adjudicating such claims for maritime workers.

• Suppose Maria, a retired coal miner, develops a severe lung condition known as pneumoconiosis (often called "black lung disease") after decades of working in underground mines. To seek benefits for her illness, which is directly linked to her occupation, Maria would apply through the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. OWCP manages claims under the Black Lung Benefits Reform Act, providing compensation to miners and their survivors affected by this occupational disease.