The Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) covers not only injury claims, but also provides survivor benefits when a federal worker is killed on the job or dies because of an occupational illness. Here are the benefits available to surviving spouses and family members:
- Surviving spouses — The amount that a surviving spouse receives depends on whether or not there the deceased left any eligible children. If there are no children, the surviving spouse is entitled to one half of the decedent’s regular pay. If there are minor children, the surviving spouse may receive 45% of the decedent’s regular pay plus 15% of the regular pay, up to a maximum of 75%.
- If a surviving spouse is under the age of 55, he/she will receive monthly benefits until death or remarriage. Upon remarriage, the spouse will receive a lump sum payment of two years compensation. However, if the surviving spouse is over the age of 55, he/she will receive compensation until death, regardless of marital status.
- Eligible children only — If the deceased worker had no living spouse, but had eligible children, the surviving child will receive 40% of the deceases regular pay plus an additional 15% for each additional child, up to a maximum of 75%.
- Orphaned children are entitled to benefits until death, marriage or until they become 18, whichever comes first. If, however, an eligible child goes to college, benefits will continue until college is completed, or until the child is 23 years of age.
- Funeral expenses — A flat sum is typically paid to defray the costs of a funeral. In addition, if the federal worker dies away from home, the cost of transporting the body back to his or her home will be paid in full.
Contact the Attorneys at Uliase & Uliase
At Uliase & Uliase, we have a thorough understanding of the federal workers’ compensation laws. If you have been hurt on the job and want to schedule an appointment, contact our office online or call us at (856) 310-9002. We will meet with you weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. We offer a free consultation for injured workers.
