Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation (DLHWC)
The Special Fund (also known as the "Second Injury Fund") pays certain types of claims and expenses authorized by the LHWCA. Claims are paid by the Special Fund only upon application by an authorized insurance carrier or self-insured employer or by Order of the District Director or Administrative Law Judge. Once the application is accepted for payment by the Special Fund, the OWCP's Longshore National Office processes payment, and the U.S. Treasury issues the benefit payments. See FAQs 41-42. If you have any questions regarding how benefits are being paid in any particular case, contact us.
- Questions and Answers are now available online for Special Fund recipients and other interested parties. They provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding Special Fund benefits.
- Special Fund payment schedule for calendar year 2025 (and 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 history) are now available, including the check date.
- Claimants - Click here to sign up for Direct Deposit. Fill out the top section of the form, and have your bank fill out the bottom section. Then upload the form directly to the case file via SEAPortal or return the form to the DLHWC Central Mail Receipt site.