Can You Fight a Denied USPS Workers’ Comp Claim?

Being injured while working for the U.S. Postal Service can be both physically and financially devastating. To make matters worse, many injured workers find out their workers’ compensation claim was denied, often without a clear explanation. If this has happened to you, don’t give up hope. You may still have a strong case. At Sarphie Law, we work with USPS employees across the country to challenge unjust denials and fight for the federal benefits they’ve earned. If your claim was rejected by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), you do have options, and we’re here to help you understand them.

Why USPS Claims Get Denied So Often

OWCP handles injury claims for all federal workers, including those employed by the Postal Service. This system is highly technical, with strict documentation requirements and a narrow review process. Even if your injury is legitimate, a claim can be denied for a number of procedural or administrative reasons. Here are the most common reasons claims are denied:

• Insufficient medical evidence: The doctor’s report must clearly explain how the injury relates to your work duties. Vague or generic notes often lead to rejection.
• Incorrect forms: Filing the wrong form (e.g., CA-1 for traumatic injuries or CA-2 for occupational illnesses) can delay or derail your case.
• Conflicting statements: If there’s a discrepancy between your account and your supervisor’s, OWCP may deny the claim based on doubt.
• Untimely filing: If you waited too long to report the injury or submit documentation, your claim could be barred by deadlines.
• Lack of causation: The medical provider must explicitly link the injury to a specific incident or work-related activity. Without that connection, the claim will likely fail.

Even minor errors can lead to a denial. That’s why it’s important to have someone with experience reviewing your documents before you file or appeal.

Your Right to Appeal a Denial

Receiving a denial letter isn’t the end of the road; it’s the beginning of a new phase. The federal workers’ compensation system provides several ways to contest a denied claim, depending on your situation and the type of error. You may be eligible to pursue one of the following appeal options:

1. Request for Reconsideration: You can ask OWCP to review the decision again. You must include new and relevant evidence, such as updated medical records, clarifying physician statements, or additional witness accounts.
2. Hearing Before a Branch of Hearings and Review: This allows you to present your case in person. A hearing representative will review all the evidence and give you a chance to testify and bring supporting documentation.
3. Review of the Written Record: If you prefer not to attend a hearing, you can request a decision based on documents already in the file, along with any new materials you submit.
4. ECAB Appeal: The Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board is the highest level of appeal. It reviews only legal questions, not new facts, and must be filed within 180 days of OWCP’s final decision.

Each route requires careful preparation and timely filing. Many USPS workers choose to work with a legal professional at this stage, as the process can be difficult to handle alone.

Benefits You’re Entitled to Receive

If your claim is ultimately approved either through the original filing or a successful appeal, you may be entitled to several types of benefits, including:

• Medical care: Full coverage for doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any other treatment related to your injury.
• Wage loss compensation: Payments for lost wages due to partial or total inability to work, including short- and long-term disability benefits.
• Schedule awards: Lump sum payments for permanent impairment to specific body parts, such as arms, legs, hands, or eyes.
• Vocational rehabilitation: Assistance if your injury prevents you from returning to your old job and you need help training for a new role.

Many injured postal employees rely on these benefits for stability. When a claim is wrongfully denied, it puts serious financial and physical strain on workers who already gave their best on the job.

Why Legal Help Makes a Difference

OWCP claim denials often boil down to missing paperwork, technical flaws, or lack of clarity. A workers’ compensation attorney familiar with federal claims can ensure your appeal is supported by clear medical documentation, properly completed forms, and a compelling legal argument. At Sarphie Law, we handle every aspect of the process, including:

• Reviewing the denial letter in detail
• Requesting missing records or new doctor evaluations
• Preparing witness statements or supplemental reports
• Filing appeals with supporting evidence
• Representing you in hearings or written submissions

We know what OWCP is looking for and what mistakes to avoid.

Don’t Let a Denial Define Your Case

You’ve worked hard for the Postal Service. You’ve followed the rules. If you’ve been hurt on the job and your claim was denied, you deserve a second chance and possibly a much better outcome. Too often, workers feel defeated and give up on the process. But with the right support, it’s possible to overturn a denial and secure the benefits you need to recover, pay bills, and protect your future.

Let Sarphie Law Fight for You

If your USPS workers’ compensation claim was denied, you have options, but time is limited. Don’t go through the process alone or risk making another mistake that could cost you your benefits. Contact Sarphie Law today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you fight back.