Disability Benefits Guide
District of Columbia Workers’ Compensation: Claims, Disputes, and Help
On This Page
Which System Handles This Claim?
The DC Office of Workers’ Compensation page discussed here serves private-sector employees. District government and federal employment have different routes. Confirm which system covers your employer before using a private-sector form.
Official District of Columbia Guidance.
How Do I Report the Injury?
Report the job-related injury or illness promptly to the employer. OWC distinguishes the employee’s notice, Form OWC-7, from the employee’s claim application, OWC-7A. Keep copies and follow the instructions for both the employer and the office.
Official District of Columbia Guidance.
What Do I File?
The current DOES page links online versions of both employee forms and also permits mailing as directed on the forms. An employer’s OWC-8 first report is a separate document. Save the electronic confirmation or mailing record for your own submission.
Official District of Columbia Guidance.
What if Benefits Are Disputed?
For a dispute, OWC links an application for an informal or mediation conference. The page separately directs formal hearing applicants to Form 20 through the Administrative Hearings Division’s e-File system. These are different stages and should not be treated as one interchangeable form.
Official District of Columbia Guidance.
Where Can I Get Help, and What Should I Bring?
Bring the claim application, denial or payment notice, medical evidence, and wage information when seeking assistance. Use the current main page’s filing links: older explanatory pages may describe paper procedures that predate today’s online options. Ask the appropriate office to confirm the required service, deadline, and hearing route for your notice.
Official District of Columbia Guidance.
Choose Your Next Step
- Organize A Claim Or Denial
- Check SSDI And SSI Coordination
- Explore Workers’ Compensation Help Options
General information, not a decision about your eligibility or legal advice. Source information checked October 20, 2026; rules, forms, and filing methods can change.