CA1s & CA2s – The Difference

The main difference between CA-1 and CA-2 forms for OWCP is the type of injury or illness that they are used to report.

• CA-1: This form is used to report a traumatic injury, which is an injury that occurs suddenly and is caused by a single event. For example, a CA-1 form would be used to report an injury that occurs in a car accident or a slip and fall.
• CA-2: This form is used to report an occupational disease or illness, which is a condition that develops over time as a result of exposure to hazardous substances or conditions in the workplace. For example, a CA-2 form would be used to report an injury that occurs as a result of exposure to asbestos or repetitive stress.

In addition to the type of injury or illness, there are a few other differences between CA-1 and CA-2 forms:

• Time limits: The deadline for filing a CA-1 form is 30 days from the date of the injury. The deadline for filing a CA-2 form is 3 years from the date the employee first became aware of the medical condition.
• Documentation: A CA-1 form requires a medical report from a doctor. A CA-2 form also requires a factual employment statement from the employer, which describes the employee’s job duties and the work environment.
• Benefits: The benefits that are available for CA-1 and CA-2 claims are the same. These benefits may include medical expenses, temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits, weight loss benefits, and vocational rehabilitation services.

If you are injured on the job, it is important to file a personal injury claim with OWCP as soon as possible. If you are unsure which form to file, you should contact your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier or OWCP directly for assistance.