October 2025
 HB25-1300 Listening Sessions
Recent legislation, HB25-1300, known as "Workers' Compensation Benefits Proof of Entitlement," goes into effect on January 1, 2028.
The Division of Workers' Compensation (DOWC) is holding multiple 90-minute listening sessions on Zoom to discuss important topics and hear from stakeholders. The first session was on October 8. You must register in advance using the links below to attend the remaining sessions.
Please note that these are not rule hearings. Please email Education & Outreach at cdle_dowc_communications@state.co.us if you have questions about the sessions or written comments about HB25-1300.
Session 2: October 22 at 4:00 p.m. MT
This session will address updates on the DOWC provider directory and identify the types of providers that can be designated. It will also cover the accreditation process for providers, including how the DOWC monitors their licenses and malpractice status.
Session 3: November 5 at 4:00 p.m. MT
This session will address the implications of the premium credit referenced in the Division of Insurance's Amended Regulation 5-1-11 Section 5(E). It will also cover timelines related to designating and changing physicians to ensure that workers receive timely care. Session 3 will also invite discussion on effective strategies to reduce costs for all parties.
Adopted Rule 18 Effective January 1, 2026
The Rule 18 hearing took place on September 15. An adopted version of Rule 18 is available and will be effective on January 1, 2026.
Legislative Update and Workers' Compensation Act
The 2025 Colorado Legislative Session passed two bills impacting workers' compensation. The 2025 Legislative Update highlights key changes, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DOWC) rule updates, and form revisions. A recording of the 2025 Legislative Update webinar is now available.
The 2025 Workers' Compensation Act (WC Act) is also available. To order physical copies, fill out this Request for Services (RFS) form and email it to cdle_dowc_rfs@state.co.us. The first five copies are free; additional copies cost $5 plus postage. Orders of 10 or more copies require pickup from the DOWC in downtown Denver. For questions, contact Customer Service at 303-318-8700 or 888-390-7936.
 Claims System Modernization: CoComp Project
The DOWC is modernizing its claims management system with a new system called CoComp, developed in partnership with CapTech Consulting. CoComp aims to create an easy-to-use, transparent, and efficient system for workers' compensation activities in Colorado.
Project Timeline:
- Initial CoComp Launch (Summer 2026): Internal DOWC functionalities will be replaced/enhanced, with early access to basic functions for insurers and third-party administrators (TPAs).
- Final CoComp Launch (Fall 2027): Open access for all external users (providers, attorneys, claimants, etc.), allowing secure viewing and management of claim status and actions.
The DOWC appreciates stakeholder input and will continue to provide updates and opportunities for engagement. Please email the Education & Outreach team at cdle_dowc_communications@state.co.us with questions or feedback.
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Register for the Colorado Workers' Compensation Educational Conference (CWCEC) |
CWCEC is back in 2026! Join us March 9-11, 2026, at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs for Colorado’s premier workers’ compensation event. This year’s theme, “The Next Frontier: Innovating Our Future,” highlights modernization, innovation, and efficiency in the system.
Registration is now open. Exhibitor and sponsor opportunities are also available. If you have questions about exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Gary Davis at 859-219-0194 or via email at gary.davis@sawca.org.
The DOWC is Moving
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and the DOWC are relocating their Denver headquarters to 707 17th St, Denver, CO 80202.
The DOWC expects to begin serving customers in the new space starting November 3, 2025. At that time, DOWC stakeholders can get the in-person support they need by making an appointment online. In-person appointments won’t be available from October 17 through October 31 during this transition, but the call center and self-service customer service options will remain operational. All other business operations at DOWC are expected to continue as usual.
Additional details about the new appointment intake process will be provided in the near future. Stay tuned for details.
Forms and Filing Requirements Updates
Use of Current Forms
All submissions, including Requests for Disfigurement Awards, Application for Indigent Determination, and Settlement Agreements, must use the latest forms. Any outdated versions will be rejected. Download current forms on the DOWC forms webpage.
Entries of Appearance (EOAs) and Motions to Withdraw
The DOWC will no longer accept EOAs or Motions to Withdraw that are filed with the Office of Administrative Courts (OAC) and copied to the DOWC.
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To enter an appearance with the DOWC, attorneys must file an EOA directly with the DOWC.
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To withdraw as the attorney of record, file a Motion to Withdraw directly with the DOWC. Filings captioned for OAC but filed with DOWC will be rejected.
For any questions regarding these changes, contact the Prehearing & Settlement Conference Unit at cdle_dowc_prehearings@state.co.us.
Updated Division Independent Medication Examination (DIME) WC178
The WC178: Notice of Request for Follow-Up DIME form has been revised to improve clarity and usability for stakeholders. Key updates include a designated line for the DIME physician's signature and a required section for medical records contacts. These changes aim to minimize confusion and enhance communication throughout the DIME process.
 Claims Adjusting Training Series
The DOWC is excited to continue producing quality self-guided lessons through the Claims Adjusting Training Series to support the handling of claims within the Colorado workers’ compensation system. Recent modules include:
The full series of training modules are available on the DOWC's Vimeo Showcase.
2026 E-Billing Requirements Webinar
Beginning January 1, 2026, the DOWC will require all providers (excluding interpreters) submitting 25 or more workers’ compensation bills per month to submit electronic medical bills. Likewise, all payers (excluding self-insured employers) must accept these electronic medical bills in a HIPAA-compliant 837 format. The DOWC recently hosted a webinar to discuss preparations for the 2026 E-Billing requirements.
Are You Signed Up?
Have you checked to ensure you receive the email newsletters you’d like? You can update your subscription preferences at any time by visiting the GovDelivery sign-up form. There are six topics available, and you can sign up for text alerts. At any time, you can utilize that same form to update or remove subscriptions, including for text alerts. You may also text “stop” in response to a text alert to unsubscribe from text messages.
If you have any questions, please email Education & Outreach at cdle_dowc_communications@state.co.us.
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