Workers' Compensation
Scam Alert: Scam Targeting Colorado Workers
The Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation (DOWC) is aware of a scam targeting Colorado workers, in which individuals falsely claim to represent the DOWC or the courts. In these scams, workers are contacted, sometimes by phone, email, or video calls, and told they must pay money to receive workers’ compensation benefits or to settle their claims. These communications may appear official and may falsely identify the caller as a judge, attorney, or government representative. What you should know:
- The DOWC and insurance carriers do not ask for payment to release workers’ compensation benefits. Never pay money up front for benefits or settlements.
- The DOWC will never ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Be skeptical of any requests for payment and call 303-318-8700 before sending any form of payment.
- Official communications from the DOWC will not pressure you to act or pay immediately.
If you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate, do not send money or personal information. Verify before you act. Our Customer Service team can help verify the status of a workers’ compensation claim and provide guidance:
- Call: 303-318-8700
- Email: cdle_wccustomer_service@state.co.us
- Visit our website: cdle.colorado.gov/dwc
If you believe a scammer has contacted you, we encourage you to report it to the DOWC as soon as possible.
What is Workers' Compensation?
Workers’ compensation insurance provides medical and lost wage benefits to workers who are injured on the job. All businesses with employees operating in Colorado are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, regardless of the number of employees, whether the employees only work part-time, or if they are members of the same family. Workers’ compensation insurance is purchased by an employer from an insurance agent, much like liability or auto insurance. The cost of workers’ compensation insurance cannot be passed on to employees.
Requirements for Employers
Employers, if you have one or more employees working for you in Colorado, you must have workers’ compensation insurance and maintain it at all times. This applies to all employers, whether the employees are part-time, full-time, or family members. Colorado has additional insurance requirements for businesses in the construction industry. Failure to carry insurance could result in fines.
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Accessibility Information and Requests
To learn more about the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment's accessibility initiative and to request accessible copies of resources, please visit the State of Colorado Accessibility Statement.
Important Resources
Contact Us
Division of Workers' Compensation (DOWC)
707 17th Street, Suite 2300
Denver, CO 80202
303-318-8700
1-888-390-7936 (Toll-Free)
Email the DOWC at cdle_wccustomer_service@state.co.us
View additional DOWC contact information
Have a complaint? Please email cdle_wc_complaints@state.co.us.