If I apply for a schedule award does that mean OWCP will automatically pay you?

No. The schedule award payment is based on an impairment rating assigned by the doctor to you. OWCP may and oftentimes does challenge the schedule award. It can be challenged by a District Medical Advisor (DMA) or a Second Opinion doctor (or both) who will evaluate you. Challenges could include if you really reached your maximum medical improvement (MMI), how the rating was obtained, whether the doctor used the AMA Guides correctly, or whether the impairment rating is too high or too low. If OWCP denies your schedule award, appeal remedies are available.

NOTE: The above are general statements. Every case is different. Seek legal help based on the unique facts of your case.