District of Columbia Workers' Compensation Laws

For occupational diseases, the 1-year filing period does not begin until the employee is aware, or should have been aware, of the relationship between the disease and the employment.

Report the injury to your employer in writing within 30 days of the injury or within 30 days of discovering a work-related illness.

File a formal claim (Form 7A) with the D.C. Office of Workers' Compensation within 1 year of the injury or the last benefit payment.

Every employer in D.C. with one or more employees must carry workers' compensation insurance. Coverage is provided through private carriers, or employers may self-insure with approval.

Temporary total disability benefits pay two-thirds of the employee's average weekly wage, subject to an annual maximum ($1,808.66/week for 2025) and minimum ($452.17/week for 2025) set by the District.

Injured workers have the right to choose their own treating physician. However, changing the treating physician after initial selection requires prior approval from the insurance carrier.

Employers cannot discharge or discriminate against an employee for filing or intending to file a workers' compensation claim.

The employer must provide all reasonable and necessary medical, surgical, and hospital treatment for work-related injuries. There is no time limit or dollar cap on medical benefits.