Labor Department Reviews Death Gratuity Form for Public Feedback
Published Date: 4/17/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Labor is asking for public feedback on a form used to pay up to $100,000 to families of federal employees who died while serving in military operations since 2001. This review helps make sure the paperwork is clear and not too much work for families or agencies. Comments are due by May 18, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up if you have ideas!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Up to $100,000 Death Gratuity
If a federal or Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentality employee dies from injuries incurred in connection with service with an Armed Force in a contingency operation, eligible beneficiaries can receive a death gratuity benefit of up to $100,000. This benefit was created by Section 1105 of Public Law 110-181 (effective January 28, 2008) and uses OWCP Forms CA-40, CA-41, and CA-42 to designate beneficiaries and start payments.
Retroactive Payments for 2001+ Deaths
The law permits agencies to authorize retroactive death gratuity payments for covered employees who died on or after October 7, 2001 while serving in the theater of Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom. Families of eligible employees who died on or after that date may be able to receive the death gratuity payment.
How Beneficiaries File Claims (Form CA-41)
Named beneficiaries and other possible recipients must use OWCP Form CA-41 to file claims for the death gratuity so OWCP can determine eligibility. OWCP Form CA-42 is used by agencies to notify OWCP of a covered employee's death and to provide information needed to administer claims.
You Can Name Alternate Beneficiaries (Form CA-40)
Federal employees may use OWCP Form CA-40 (optional) to change the order of precedence of beneficiaries or to name alternate beneficiaries for the death gratuity benefit, but only if the employee chooses to complete the form. Filling out the form lets you record beneficiary choices in advance.
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