MARAD Updates Seamen Claims Procedures and Contacts
Published Date: 6/5/2026
Rule
Summary
If you’re a seaman working on ships owned or run by MARAD, this new rule update is for you! It cleans up old rules, fixes confusing references, and makes it easier to file claims if something goes wrong. Starting June 5, 2026, you’ll see clearer instructions and updated contact info—no extra costs, just smoother sailing for your claims.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Broader medical provider recognition
MARAD replaces the term "physician" with "licensed healthcare practitioner," so nurse practitioners and other licensed providers can supply medical reports and records used to support claims. The change is included in the final rule text and is intended to let claimants rely on the clinicians most familiar with their care.
Agency pays required independent exams
If MARAD requires an independent medical examination to evaluate a claimant's licensed healthcare practitioner report, MARAD will arrange a mutually convenient exam and will bear the costs of that examination. This provision appears in both the Clarification Act and Other Admiralty sections.
Deadlines to preserve lawsuit rights
For Clarification Act claims, if MARAD does not give written notice of allowance or disallowance within 60 calendar days after receipt, the claim is presumed administratively disallowed. For Admiralty Extension Act (AEA) claims, denial is presumed 6 months after a properly presented claim, and a civil suit must be filed within two years of the accrual date. These timing rules are in the final regulations.
Joint appraisal for >$20,000 property claims
For any property damage claim that may result in payment in excess of $20,000.00, a survey or appraisal must be performed as soon as practicable and, unless waived in writing, performed jointly with a government representative. MARAD may waive these requirements when circumstances warrant.
Applies to MARAD seamen claims
If you are a seaman employed on vessels owned, operated, or chartered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), these rules govern how you must submit claims and how MARAD will handle them. The final rule is effective June 5, 2026 and updates the part of the CFR that covers seamen's claims.
More detailed claim documentation required
Claims must be in writing and include a sum certain with a breakdown (past and future lost earnings, medical expenses, pain and suffering, etc.), the seaman's name, mailing and legal residence addresses, date of birth, merchant mariner license number, last four digits of the seaman's Social Security number, incident date/time/place, supporting evidence, medical records and HIPAA‑compliant waivers, days worked and earnings for the current and two prior calendar years, and (for self‑employed claimants) federal tax returns for the three previous years.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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