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Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) Benefits for Volunteer Service-related Health Conditions
Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who were injured or developed health conditions during service may be eligible for medical and compensation benefits through the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), administered by the U.S. Department of Labor‘s (DOL) Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.
We know that seeking federal benefits can feel overwhelming. The Peace Corps is here to help you every step of the way—at your own pace. We are here to help you understand the program, build a strong claim, and navigate the application process.
Benefits of FECA
Medical expenses coverage
FECA pays for all related medical expenses, including mental health services, when individuals use a DOL-registered provider (which the Peace Corps can help you locate).
Payment for lost income
RPCVs who struggle to work while healing from a service-related injury and medical condition can file for work-related disability payments.
Access to career counselors and assistance
RPCVS can work with a DOL vocational rehabilitation counselor to get back on their feet after service.
Opportunities include:
- Counseling and guidance
- Transferrable skills analyses
- Short-term training
- Job placement assistance
Claims process
- Contact the Peace Corps Office of Volunteer Health’ FECA team ([email protected]) to start the claims process. The Peace Corps is dedicated to assisting you with this process every step of the way. We can help you understand the information and materials you need as well as how to build and file a strong claim.
- File your claim online.
- Your claim is evaluated by DOL’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. Timeframes for assessment vary.
- Receive claim status update:
- “Accepted” claim status – After your claim is accepted, you will begin receiving benefits.
- “Under development” claim status – When “under development,” you may be required to provide additional information from health care provider(s) to complete the review of your claim.
- “Denied” claim status: If your claim is denied, there are three different avenues available for appeal, which can be pursued one at a time. The Peace Corps FECA team can help you determine which avenues to pursue and how to strengthen your claim but cannot appeal on an individual’s behalf.
Frequently asked questions
What if my injury occurred years ago?
FECA has a timely filing requirement. This means you must file a FECA claim within three years of your completion of service or when you become aware of a possible relationship between your service-related medical condition(s) and factors of employment.
Will I need a diagnosis for my claim? Can my counselor provide a diagnosis?
Yes, your FECA claim will require a diagnosis from a qualified medical provider. This can include a primary care physician, psychiatrist, or doctoral-level psychologists (PhD or PsyD).
Are telehealth appointments accepted for FECA coverage?
Yes, FECA covers medical expenses incurred through telehealth services.
For survivors of sexual assault
The Peace Corps’ FECA team is dedicated to providing you compassionate and confidential assistance, whenever you are ready. Whether you filed a standard or restricted sexual assault report (or no report at all) during service, you may be eligible for FECA benefits, just like any RPCV who was injured or developed a medical condition during service. Reach out to us today to learn more and start the claims process.
Contact us
Email us at [email protected] or reach out by phone at 202-692-1540.