What happens if I file with the wrong federal agency?

Submitting a claim to the wrong federal agency can delay the process. Federal regulations generally provide that an agency receiving a misdirected claim should transfer it to the appropriate agency, if it can identify the correct one. Even so, claimants remain responsible for meeting the Federal Tort Claims Act’s filing deadlines. Identifying the proper federal agency before submitting Standard Form 95 may help avoid unnecessary delays or procedural complications. An experienced FTCA lawyer can guide you through these steps to prevent such errors that could cause delays.