Once paid in full, the agency restores the sick/annual leave to the employee's record. Pros & Cons Review

LBB only applies if the CA-7 claim is approved by OWCP.

This review of the program provides a detailed overview based on current Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) procedures as of early 2026. Executive Summary

Form CA-7 (specifically checking box B), and Form CA-7b (Leave Buy Back Worksheet). Procedural Review

Requests must typically be initiated within one year of the date leave was used or the date the claim was accepted, whichever is later.

Requires paying back full value in cash for a benefit that might not be used immediately.

Is this for a or occupational (CA-2) injury?

Only sick or annual leave can be bought back. Compensatory time, credit hours, or time-off awards are not eligible.