How to File the First Report of Injury for Indiana Workers' Compensation

Key Requirements for Indiana's First Report of Injury

Indiana law mandates that an employer file a First Report of Injury (FROI) within three days of learning about a work‑related incident. The report must include the employee's name, date of injury, description of the event, and any medical treatment received. Failure to meet this deadline can jeopardize the employee's right to benefits and expose the employer to penalties.

Step‑by‑Step Filing Process

1. Gather essential information: employee details, employer identification, incident date and time, location, and a concise narrative of how the injury occurred.

2. Complete the Indiana Workers' Compensation First Report of Injury form (Form WC‑5): Available online via the Indiana Workers' Compensation Board (IWCB) portal or as a printable PDF.

3. Submit the form: Upload the completed form through the IWCB's e‑filing system or mail it to the Board's address. Electronic submission is recommended for faster processing.

4. Provide supporting documentation: Attach any medical reports, witness statements, or photos that clarify the incident.

5. Confirm receipt: After submission, the IWCB will issue a confirmation number. Keep this for future reference and for any follow‑up claims.

Deadlines and Penalties

The three‑day filing window starts when the employer first learns of the injury, not when the employee reports it. Late filings may result in a $250 fine per day and can delay benefit payments. In severe cases, the Board may deny the claim entirely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting for the employee to file a claim before reporting the injury.
• Leaving out critical details such as the exact time or location of the incident.
• Submitting incomplete or illegible forms, which cause processing delays.
• Failing to retain a copy of the confirmation number for record‑keeping.

What Happens After the Report Is Filed

Once the IWCB receives the FROI, the claim is assigned to an adjuster who reviews the information and determines eligibility for benefits. The employee may receive temporary disability payments within a few days if the claim is approved. The employer should cooperate with any additional requests for information or medical examinations.

Table: Timeline and Consequences for First Report of Injury