Detailed Answer

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Louisiana, you can take several steps to confirm whether your employer or insurer has officially filed a workers’ compensation claim on your behalf. Under Louisiana Revised Statute 23:1208, employers must report workplace injuries to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration (OWCA) within 10 days of learning of the injury. Likewise, La. R.S. 23:1209 requires employers to notify the insurer and the employee within 15 days. Here’s how to verify a filed claim:

Contact Your Employer’s HR or Safety Department
Ask whether they have submitted the “Employer’s First Report of Injury” (Form 1008) to the OWCA and to the insurance carrier. Request a copy of that filing for your records.
Review Written Notices
Your employer or the insurer must provide you with a notice of benefits decision (acceptance or denial). If you received a “Notice of Payment or Suspension,” it confirms the insurer has processed your claim.
Call the Insurance Adjuster
If you know the name of the workers’ comp carrier, contact the adjuster handling your file. They can confirm the date your claim was opened and the reference number.
Check with the OWCA
Visit the OWCA website or call its Customer Service Center at (225) 342-8634. Provide your name, your employer’s name, and the date of injury. OWCA can tell you if a report has been received. OWCA website: https://www.laworks.net/WorkersComp/Default.aspx
Review Medical Billing Statements
If your medical provider billed the workers’ compensation insurer, the statement usually specifies the claim number or insurer’s name. That confirms the claim is in the system.

Key Statutes:

La. R.S. 23:1208 (Employer’s report to OWCA within 10 days): legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=78622
La. R.S. 23:1209 (Notice to employee and insurer within 15 days): legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=78654

Helpful Hints

Keep copies of all accident reports, emails, and notices.
Send your initial injury notice to your employer via certified mail and keep the receipt.
Note all deadlines: you must notify your employer within 30 days of the injury or disability (La. R.S. 23:1201).
If you don’t hear back in 10–15 days, follow up in writing and request proof of filing.
Save medical bills and Doctor’s reports—they often list the workers’ comp insurer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consider consulting a qualified Louisiana workers’ compensation attorney for advice tailored to your situation.