Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini

Chris & Gini Helms

Educating the federal workforce about their rights and responsibilities in OWCP. "Welcome to 'Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini,' where we bring our same Wednesday chat vibes to the audio world! Join us for insightful conversations, education, and a deeper dive into the topics that matter to you as a federal employee. Tune in for your weekly dose of thought-provoking discussions. Let's break it all down together!" 🎙️🗣️ #BreakingOWCP #Podcast #WednesdayChats #ConversationsJust so you know our most recent chats will be released on Fridays &Our Previous chats will be released on Sundays and those will be shorter segment style. 

  1. 5 DE SET.

    Federal Employee Retirement Masterclass: Complete Guide to TSP, Disability Benefits & Retirement Planning

    🎯 Key Topics Covered: TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) Strategy: • Which TSP funds to choose (G, F, C, S, I funds explained) • Traditional vs Roth contributions • Why to avoid mutual funds with high fees • Early withdrawal rules (55+ separation from service) • Rolling TSP to IRA for better flexibility Federal Retirement Eligibility: • Full retirement at 62 with 5 years service • Early retirement at 60 with 20 years service • MRA + 30 years (Minimum Retirement Age around 57) • Best retirement dates (last day of month for FERS employees) Sick Leave Retirement Formula: • Exclusive formula to maximize pension benefits • How to calculate optimal sick leave balance • Why retiring with wrong sick leave amount costs thousands • Step-by-step calculation: (Start date - 2 days) × 5.797 hours + 1 hour Federal Disability Retirement: • FERS vs Social Security disability differences • 60% first year, 40% until age 62, then regular pension calculation • Medical narrative requirements from doctors • 7-9 month average processing time through OPM • Working while on disability (80% income limit) USPS Employee Benefits Future: • Impact of postal health benefit changes • Protection under collective bargaining agreements • VERA and early retirement considerations 💡 Expert Tips: • Never retire on the 1st-3rd of month (FERS employees) • TSP has lower fees than many think, but IRAs offer more flexibility • Disability retirement doesn't require on-the-job injury • Social Security and FERS disability are separate programs • Annual leave should be maximized at retirement (unlike sick leave) 📞 Contact FIFA Financial: • Website: FIFAFinancial.com • Andrew Stringer: (314) 207-4048 • Lucas Winsky: (314) 207-8771 • Free consultation with no solicitation on first meeting • Serving federal employees in 13+ cities nationwide 🔗 Resources Mentioned: • Wednesday Night OWCP Chats Facebook page • Breaking OWCP Podcast • YouTube: Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris and Gini • Upcoming webinars and seminars. Tags: #FederalRetirement #TSP #DisabilityRetirement #FERS #OWCP #PostalEmployees #FederalBenefits #RetirementPlanning #SickLeave #PensionCalculation Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. Consult with qualified financial advisors for personalized retirement planning. Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    1h23min

  2. 30 DE AGO.

    The CA-10 Crisis (Live 10/20/23)

    Chris and Gini  broadcast live from the Federal Injury Center in Greenville, South Carolina during Patient Appreciation Week, revealing the shocking truth about federal workers' compensation claims and providing actionable solutions. Key Topics Covered: • The Hidden Crisis: Only 14% of federal employees have accepted OWCP claims - 86% are missing out on benefits they're entitled to • The CA-10 Form Mystery: Why this critical "What a Federal Employee Should Do When Injured at Work" form became invisible after October 2021 • Two Fatal Mistakes: The main reasons claims get denied before they even start: Not knowing what to do when injuredFear of supervisor retaliation• The "Rub Some Dirt On It" Problem: How waiting just 8 days costs you your CA-16 form and medical coverage • 30-Day Deadline Disaster: Why reporting late means losing Continuation of Pay (COP) - up to 6 weeks of paid time off • Doctor Selection Rights: Your legal right to choose your own physician (not your supervisor's choice) • The 3-Year Window: You have more time than you think to file certain claims • Live Q&A Highlights: Getting leave buy-back with CA-7 formsReimbursement for out-of-pocket medical expensesDealing with second opinion visitsSchedule awards and lifetime medical benefitsActionable Takeaways: • Print and post CA-10 forms in your workplace break rooms • Report injuries immediately - "now" means now • Know your right to choose your doctor • Use the new eCom system to bypass difficult supervisors Guest Insights: Live audience questions from federal employees sharing real workplace challenges and solutions. Resources Mentioned: • Federal Injury Centers website for forms • "Breaking OWCP" book available at breakingowcp.com • eCom.dol.gov for online claim filing This episode could save your career and your financial future. Don't let fear or ignorance cost you the benefits you've earned. Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    46min

  3. 16 DE AGO.

    From OWCP Claims to Compound Interest: Building Wealth While Your Money Sleeps

    Chris and Gini return after a month-long hiatus to share personal challenges and introduce financial expert Gail Ames, who reveals game-changing investment strategies for federal employees and everyday people. Learn how to make your money work while you sleep and protect yourself from market losses. Featured Guest Gail Ames - Former AFGE benefits specialist, licensed financial advisor in all 50 states Contact: 314-223-4264 | gailames.hig@gmail.com Key Topics Covered Personal Updates (0:00-5:00) Chris & Gini's month-long absence explainedCaring for terminally ill family pet GizmoUpcoming 7-week travel scheduleDetroit Mail Handlers convention announcement Einstein's 8th Wonder: Compound Interest (15:00-25:00) The Rule of 72 explainedWhy 12% returns turn $10K into $640K over 36 yearsHow credit card debt doubles every 2.8 years at 25% interestReal examples of compound interest working for and against you The 6-Step Financial Foundation (25:00-45:00) Increasing Cash Flow - Multiple income streams and side hustlesDebt Management - Using credit cards as tools, not trapsEmergency Fund - 3-6 months income in high-yield savings (4% example)Proper Protection - Revolutionary life insurance with living benefitsBuilding Wealth - Market gains without market lossesPreserving Wealth - $600 estate planning vs $3,000 attorney fees Revolutionary Investment Strategy (35:00-40:00) Indexed products that capture S&P 500 gainsZero loss protection when markets crash"Make money when it goes up, lose nothing when it goes down" Long-Term Care Crisis (40:00-45:00) Why traditional LTC insurance is failing (77% rate increases)Life insurance alternatives with living benefitsCreating your own personal pension with annuities The Cost of Waiting (45:00-50:00) 25-year-old investing $300/month for 6 years vs waiting 6 years$25K investment vs $61K investment for same resultsWhy starting young is everything OWCP Q&A Session (50:00-60:00) Medical provider credentialing requirementsLifetime medical benefits and claim reopeningTravel reimbursement changesDealing with difficult claims examinersCo-pay reimbursement timeframes Key Quotes "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. The people who understand it earn it. People who don't pay it." - Albert Einstein"I love it when money works while I'm sleeping." - Gail Ames"Hope is not a strategy." - Chris"We're just here to help." - Chris & Gini's philosophy Action Items for Listeners Calculate your current debt doubling time using Rule of 72Review credit card usage - tool vs trap assessmentContact Gail for personalized financial needs analysisSet up high-yield emergency fundResearch indexed investment productsEnsure OWCP medical providers are DOL-credentialed Resources Mentioned Wealthfront app for high-yield savingsNet Log estate planning software ($600)Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    38min

  4. 19 DE JUL.

    OWCP Claims Process Explained: Complete Guide for Federal Employees (2025)

    Breaking OWCP Podcast with  Chris and Gini, featuring special guests Jennifer and Emmy from Federal Injury Centers. This episode provides an inside look at what happens when you call a Federal Injury Center's office for the first time and walks through the complete OWCP claims process. Featured Guests Jennifer - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchisesEmmy - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchises Key Topics Covered Filing Your Initial Claim How to create an eCom account on ecom.dl.govFiling CA-1 (traumatic injury) or CA-2 (occupational disease) claimsThe supervisor's role in the processGetting your case file number within 5 days Common Mistakes to Avoid Biggest mistake: Not reporting the injury immediately to someoneDocumenting incorrect information (wrong dates, personal details)Not electing Continuation of Pay (COP)Rushing through paperwork without double-checking The FIC Intake Process Detailed one-hour intake interviewComprehensive injury description gatheringMedical records collectionDOL document review After Filing Your Claim Understanding development letters vs. denialsThe 60-day response periodWhat happens during your medical appointmentWork status forms and restrictions Appeals and Reconsiderations Why FIC prefers reconsideration over other appeal methodsUnlimited reconsideration attempts within 12 monthsSuccess rate of over 95% claim acceptance Schedule Awards Eligibility requirements (must be back to full duty or retired)Cannot receive dual OWCP benefits simultaneouslyNo time limit - can file as long as you're alive Special Situations Discussed Hearing loss claimsAir Marshal specific formsRural carrier vs. other postal craftsMultiple case scenarios Upcoming Events Las Vegas Open House: July 22nd, 4-6 PM with Dr. HawkinsBirmingham Visit: July 30th with Dr. Harper Key Takeaways Report injuries immediately, even if pain seems minorTake time to carefully complete all paperworkFederal Injury Centers has helped over 10,000 people get claims acceptedThe medical narrative is crucial for claim approvalSupervisors have limited power in the claims processThis episode serves as a comprehensive guide for federal employees navigating the OWCP claims process from initial injury through potential appeals. Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    53min

  5. 11 DE JUL.

    10 Biggest OWCP Lies Debunked: Federal Workers' Compensation Myths Exposed

    Chris and Gini debunk the 10 most common OWCP lies federal employees hear from supervisors and HR, revealing the truth about workers' compensation rights and processes. The 10 OWCP Lies Debunked Lie #1: Must Use OWCP Panel Doctor Truth: You can choose ANY doctor. Search "OWCP injury doctor [your city]" on Google. Lie #2: Must Report Injury Immediately Truth: You have 3 YEARS to report workplace injuries. Lie #3: Can't File for Mental Stress/Harassment Truth: Mental health conditions ARE covered (PTSD, workplace trauma, etc.). Lie #4: Denied Claim = Game Over Truth: 4 appeal options within 12 months. Reconsideration is most effective. Lie #5: No Treatment Until Claim Approved Truth: Get CA-16 form for immediate treatment. No payback if denied. Lie #6: Must Return to Work if Supervisor Says So Truth: Return to work is a MEDICAL decision only. Supervisors aren't doctors. Lie #7: No Witness = No Claim Truth: Most approved claims lack witness statements. Doctor's report matters most. Lie #8: Injury Report is Enough Truth: Need medical narrative report explaining work-relatedness. Lie #9: OWCP Claims Aren't Worth It Truth: Federal Injury Centers: 95%+ approval rate vs 14% national average. Lie #10: Agency Disbelief = OWCP Denial Truth: Claims examiners ignore supervisor negativity. Medical evidence wins. Key Resources CA-10 Form: "What Federal Employee Should Do When Injured" - print and post at workCA-16 Form: Get from management for immediate treatment authorization Success Formula Report within 3 yearsChoose right doctorGet proper medical narrativeJoin your unionKnow your rights Upcoming Events July 11: Daytona Beach openingJuly 21: Las Vegas open houseSept 6: Phoenix Mail Handlers convention Contact Facebook/YouTube: Wednesday Night OWCP ChatsWebsite: federalinjurycenters.com15,000+ claims handled, 95%+ approval rateBottom Line: Don't let supervisor misinformation cost you your rightful benefits. Knowledge is power in OWCP. Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    45min

  6. 28 DE JUN.

    Union Presidents Don't Know This Critical Form - And Neither Do You

    ## Episode: Union Presidents Don't Know This Critical Form - And Neither Do You **Hosts:** Chris Gini & Gini Helms   ### Key Timestamps: - **[00:06:00]** - The shocking CA-10 revelation at the National Presidents Convention - **[00:12:00]** - Can management retaliate for filing OWCP claims? - **[00:18:00]** - Medical restrictions violations and what to do about them - **[00:27:00]** - The 3-year rule most supervisors lie about - **[00:33:00]** - DME services and billing code challenges ### Major Topics Covered: **🚨 The CA-10 Crisis [00:06:00]** - Why union presidents had never heard of Form CA-10 - What every federal employee should know when injured - How to protect yourself and coworkers **💼 Workplace Retaliation [00:12:00]** - Your legal rights when filing OWCP claims - OSHA protections for injured workers - When and how to file grievances **⚖️ Know Your Rights:** - **3-year filing deadline** (not 30 days like supervisors claim) - Medical restrictions must be followed by management - EEOC options for disability discrimination - Telehealth now permanently covered **🏥 Medical & Benefits Questions:** - FMLA paperwork assistance - Schedule awards for arms/legs - Consequential injury claims - Disability retirement vs. OWCP ### Resources Mentioned: - Form CA-10: "What a Federal Employee Should Do When Injured at Work" - Federal Injury Centers locations: FederalInjuryCenters.com - OSHA Hotline: 1-800-321-OSHA - OWCP Help Line: 877-787-OWCP ### Upcoming Events: - Orlando Federal Law Enforcement Officers interview - Phoenix, Arizona training sessions - Second Annual OWCP National Convention (August) - New York training (last week of September) ### Featured Podcast Recommendation: **"The Hot House with Richie Ray"** - Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and PodBean --- **💡 Key Takeaway:** Even union leaders don't know critical OWCP forms and procedures. Don't wait until you're injured to learn your rights - get educated now. (No show next Wednesday due to travel) --- *Find all episodes on YouTube: "Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris and Gini"* Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    55min

  7. 19 DE JUN.

    The 30-Day Secret: Why Federal Supervisors Don't Want You to Know About Limited Duty Right

    Chris reveals the shocking truth about limited duty assignments that could save your federal career. Discover the 30-day rule supervisors hope you never learn about, why "signing under protest" isn't in the regulations, and how to protect yourself from workplace bullying tactics. 🎯 Key Topics Covered The "Under Protest" Myth Busted Why this phrase appears NOWHERE in federal regulationsHow supervisors use intimidation tacticsWhat you should do instead of signing under protest Your 30-Day Protection Window The hidden timeframe you have to review limited duty offersHow to get an additional 15-day extension (up to 6 weeks total)Why rushing to sign hurts your case The Doctor Review Requirement Why only your treating physician can evaluate the offerHow medical restrictions must match job duties exactlyThe claims examiner's role in protecting you Supervisor Pressure Tactics Exposed Common lies supervisors tell about immediate signing requirementsHow "management doesn't understand the rules"Your rights when facing workplace intimidation💡 Action Items for Listeners ✅ IMMEDIATELY: Take any limited duty offer directly to your doctorRequest 30 days to review (it's your RIGHT)Document all supervisor interactions✅ NEVER: Sign under pressure or intimidationAccept offers without medical reviewLet supervisors rush your decision✅ REMEMBER: Claims examiners provide second-layer protectionExtensions are available if neededYour doctor's approval is REQUIRED 📚 Resources Mentioned Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) - Limited Duty ProvisionsOWCP Claims Process GuidelinesFederal Employee Rights Documentation🎧 Connect With Us Subscribe for more federal worker protection tipsShare this episode with colleagues who need to know their rightsLeave a review if this information helped you #Hashtags #FederalWorkers #OWCP #WorkersRights #LimitedDuty #KnowYourRights #FederalEmployees #WorkplaceRights #GovernmentWorkers 🚨 SHARE THIS EPISODE - Every federal worker needs to know these rights! 🚨 Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    55min

  8. 13 DE JUN.

    TSA Vice President Reveals 23 Years of Sacrifice and Zero Plane Attacks

    TSA Vice President Reveals 23 Years of Sacrifice and Zero Plane Attacks In this powerful episode of Breaking OWCP  Gini welcomes Thomas, TSA Union Vice President for New York & New Jersey. He shares what it’s really like behind the X-ray machine—from protecting the skies with a flawless 23-year safety record to the brutal realities federal employees face when injured on the job. You’ll hear stories of leadership, loss, and the ongoing fight for fair treatment under OWCP. If you’re a federal worker, union member, or someone who thinks they know what TSA does—this episode is a must-listen. Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com Find Us on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram @ Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini

    44min
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Educating the federal workforce about their rights and responsibilities in OWCP. "Welcome to 'Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini,' where we bring our same Wednesday chat vibes to the audio world! Join us for insightful conversations, education, and a deeper dive into the topics that matter to you as a federal employee. Tune in for your weekly dose of thought-provoking discussions. Let's break it all down together!" 🎙️🗣️ #BreakingOWCP #Podcast #WednesdayChats #ConversationsJust so you know our most recent chats will be released on Fridays &Our Previous chats will be released on Sundays and those will be shorter segment style. 

Informações

  • Criado por
    Chris & Gini Helms
  • Anos de atividade
    2023 - 2025
  • Episódios
    77
  • Classificação
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini
  • Site do podcast
    Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini

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