Printing - FECA-PT2 - National Association of Letter Carriers

(a) The particular issues about which additional evidence is required; it is the
CE's responsibility to give a clear and concise description of the specific problem so
that the need for the investigation will be apparent.
(b) A resume of the relevant evidence appearing in the record.
(c) A brief explanation of the reason this evidence is not sufficient to permit a
proper determination.
(d) A brief outline for the kind of evidence which the investigator should seek,
including the names of any persons the CE believes should be contacted.
Other material pertinent to the investigation, such as a blank OWCP-20 to collect financial
information in an overpayment case, may be attached to the worksheet.
(2) When only a few items are needed to adjudicate a case (i.e., a witness statement or
an existing specific medical report which correspondence has filed to produce), the CE may
request a limited investigation to secure the evidence. The request should contain the full
names and addresses of the custodians of the needed evidence.
Under no circumstances should the CE attempt to instruct the investigator concerning the conduct
of the inquiry.
b. Decision to Investigate and Assignment of Claim. After compiling the material listed above,
the CE will send it to the ADD through the Supervisory Claims Examiner. If the ADD agrees with
the CE's recommendation, he/she will forward it to the District Director (DD), who will decide
whether the case should be investigated. If so, the DD will forward it to the appropriate office for
assignment. In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 554(d), an individual who will be involved in the final
adjudication of a case may not participate in such an investigation.
c. After Assignment for Investigation.
(1) Until the investigation has been completed, it is the responsibility of the CE to inform
the investigator of any additional information received or other developments in the case
which may be useful in conducting the inquiry. Such new material should be referred to the
ADD, who will forward it to the investigator.
(2) The CE may properly continue the development of a case by correspondence while it
is under investigation where delay is anticipated in the completion of the investigation. In
other cases, development may continue if the CE and the ADD believe that it would be
useful.
d. Receipt of Report. When the investigation report is received, the CE will review the report
together with the case file and take whatever action is supported by the findings. Any substantial
indication of fraud should be referred to the OIG.
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