Being in the military is a life of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. It’s rewarding yet incredibly strenuous and physically demanding. From training to active duty, service members face the risk of injury daily.  

Having a work-related injury can be stressful – this is your livelihood, and now you’re missing work and facing medical bills. The Military Workers’ Compensation Program is designed to provide relief and support, helping to alleviate stress and financial burden.  

Here’s everything you need to know about filing a Workers’ Compensation claim in the military. 

What’s covered?  

Workers’ Compensation will help cover your medical treatment related to the claim. Initial visits, examinations, follow-up appointments, and aftercare should be covered. 

Sometimes, Workers’ Compensation will also help reimburse lost wages if you can’t work or missed work due to your injury. In tragic situations, Workers’ Compensation may also cover the cost of burial and ceremonial expenses.  

What’s the process?  

Initiating the claims process as swiftly as possible after a work-related injury is crucial. If feasible, inform your supervisor immediately or within 24 hours of any incident. Taking this proactive step can prevent potential issues when trying to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits, putting you in control of the process.  

If you need emergency medical treatment, visit a doctor immediately. Don’t wait to file a claim – Workers’ Compensation can still cover the cost of your immediate treatment. Once the required forms are completed, submit a Workers’ Compensation claim. 

What Forms Are Needed?  

You must submit the following documents to file a Workers’ Compensation claim while on active duty. It may look overwhelming, but your supervisor, insurance, and personal injury attorney can help collect the necessary information.   

  • SORM-29 – Employee’s Report of Injury explains your account of the incident and injury.  
  • SORM-16 – Authorization of Release of Information allows necessary parties to access your medical records.  
  • CareWorks Acknowledgement Form acknowledges that you are aware of the services provided to you.  
  • Copy of Orders for Date of Injury verifies your orders at the time of the injury.  
  • DWC1s – Employer’s Report of Injury provides employee information to the insurance company.   
  • SORM 703 – Investigation Report confirms the details of the case.  
  • SORM-74 – Witness Statement outlines what any potential witnesses saw during the accident.  

Who Should I Contact?  

For any questions about your claim, remember that you are not alone.  The State Office of Risk Management (SORM) will assist you. Simply ask to speak to your adjuster, who will be your main point of contact for your claim.  

  • Phone: 512-475-1440  
  • Toll-free: 877-445-0006  

Call DWC customers service at 800-252-7031, option 1, if you need further assistance.  Inform them that you’re a member of the Texas Military Forces, and they will connect you to a claims specialist. 

Do I Need a Lawyer?  

While it’s possible to file a Workers’ Compensation claim without a lawyer’s help, it isn’t recommended.   

Insurance could deny your claim if you don’t have perfect timing or perfect circumstances. An attorney can help you determine why and argue for a different result.   

Though the insurance company will try to limit you to doctors within their network, a lawyer can argue for the best treatment possible.   

If you’ve missed out on work, or are missing out on work long-term, an attorney can help ensure you receive full compensation for lost wages.  

The ins and outs of filing a Workers’ Compensation claim can be confusing, and you shouldn’t take this situation lightly. A qualified Killeen, Texas, personal injury attorney can ensure you get full value for your injury.