Understanding Texas Workers' Compensation Work Status Reports

What a Texas Work Status Report Is and Why It Matters

In Texas, a work status report is a formal document that an injured employee, employer, or their insurance carrier files with the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation (TDI‑DWC). It details the employee's ability to work after a workplace injury, the date of the last day worked, any restrictions, and the expected date of return. The report triggers the calculation of temporary benefits, informs the employer's duty to provide modified work, and can affect the employee's entitlement to medical treatment and wage replacement.

When the Report Must Be Filed

The report is required within ten days after the employee's last day of work due to the injury. If the employee continues to work with restrictions, a new report is needed each time the work status changes—whether the employee returns to full duty, moves to light duty, or becomes unable to work entirely.

Key Elements of the Report

• Employee's name, employer, and claim number
• Date of injury and date of last work performed
• Current work status: full duty, light duty, or unable to work
• Specific work restrictions or accommodations required
• Estimated date of return to unrestricted work
• Signature of the employee, employer, or authorized representative

How the Report Affects Benefits

Once the TDI‑DWC receives the report, it determines eligibility for temporary income benefits (TIB) and temporary medical benefits (TMB). If the employee is unable to work, TIB is calculated at 70% of the average weekly wage, subject to state caps. If the employee is on light duty, the employer must provide suitable work; failure to do so can result in penalties and may increase the employer's insurance premiums.

Employer Responsibilities After Receiving the Report

Employers must review the report promptly and either offer appropriate modified work or document why suitable work is unavailable. They also need to keep records of any accommodations provided and communicate any changes in the employee's status back to the insurer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the ten‑day filing deadline can delay benefits and expose the employer to fines. Incomplete or vague restriction descriptions often lead to disputes over whether the employer offered suitable work. Finally, failing to update the report when the employee's condition improves or worsens can result in overpayment or underpayment of benefits.

Sample Timeline of Work Status Reporting