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OWCP Claims Status Decoder

Staring at a confusing OWCP status code? Enter your code below for a plain-language explanation of what it means, what action to take, and what deadlines or warnings apply to your FECA claim.

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2 results for "D5"

D5 D5 — Denied, Causal Relationship Not Established
Denial

What it means

Your claim was denied because the medical evidence does not establish that your diagnosed condition is related to your federal employment, or that disability due to the work injury has ceased.

What to do next

Obtain a comprehensive medical report from your treating physician that clearly and definitively explains how your work duties caused, aggravated, or contributed to your condition. Use the Medical Evidence Checklist to guide your doctor.

Important notes

The medical report must use definitive causal language — "is caused by," not "may be related to" or "could be consistent with." Speculative language is routinely rejected by OWCP. This is the most common denial reason.

C3 C3 — Closed, Benefits Denied
Closure

What it means

Your FECA case is closed because your claim for benefits was denied. Assigned alongside a denial adjudication code (D1–D5).

What to do next

Review the denial letter carefully for the specific reason(s) and your appeal options. Use the Appeal Assistant to determine which appeal path is best for your situation.

Important notes

Appeal deadlines are strict: reconsideration within 1 year; hearing request within 30 days; ECAB appeal within 180 days — all from the date of the denial decision. Missing these deadlines can permanently close off your options.

Understanding OWCP Status Code Structure

OWCP claim status is displayed as a combination of two two-character codes — an adjudication code and a pay status code. For example: AP-PR means "Accepted, Periodic Roll."

  • Adjudication codes (A_, D_) — indicate whether the case is accepted or denied
  • Pay status codes (MC, PR, DR, PS, etc.) — indicate the type of payment authorized
  • Closure codes (C1–C5, CL, RT) — indicate the case is closed

Your full claim status can be found by logging into ECOMP and viewing your case details, or on written correspondence from OWCP.

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