Filing a workers’ comp claim in Colorado.
Administered by the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation. Primary form: WC 15 — Worker's Claim for Compensation.
The Notice of Claim letter
Our workers’ comp wizard produces a dated, written Notice of Claim letter once its rules are reviewed by a licensed attorney.
Open Notice of Claim wizardColorado State Board
- Agency
- Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation
- Primary claim form
- WC 15 — Worker's Claim for Compensation
- Official website
- https://www.colorado.gov/cdle/dwc
Deadlines at a glance
10 days from date of injury (notify employer)
Report to your employer first. Put it in writing — email, text, or signed letter. Missing this window can reduce or eliminate benefits.
2 years from date of injury or last benefit
File WC 15 — Worker's Claim for Compensation with the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation before this window closes.
3 days, retroactive after 2 weeks
Medical benefits typically begin immediately. The waiting period applies to wage-replacement (TTD/TPD) benefits only.
Colorado-specific notes
CRS § 8-43-103.
Federal programs that may apply
The Colorado program covers most private-sector workers. Three federal programs run in parallel for specific worker categories:
- FECA — Federal Employees’ Compensation Act. Covers civilian federal employees. Filed through the US DOL, Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.
- LHWCA — Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Covers maritime workers (longshoremen, shipbuilders, harbor workers) on navigable US waters.
- Jones Act — 46 U.S.C. § 30104. Covers seamen injured in the course of employment. Provides a negligence cause of action and maintenance and cure rights outside the state WC system.
Need help with more than the notice letter?
Disputed claims, denial appeals, permanent disability ratings, and third-party tort claims alongside workers’ comp require sustained documentation. A free account keeps your case and its deadlines in one place.