OREGON LEGAL RESOURCES
Reporting a work injury in Oregon
EWC Law · Published October 2, 2026
Reporting an injury starts a record. Keep that record clear enough that you can later explain what happened, when you reported it and what response you received.
Tell your employer and medical provider.
The Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division advises workers to report a work-related injury or illness to their employer promptly. Form 801 is used to report the claim to the employer. When you receive medical care, tell the provider that the condition is work-related; Form 827 is used in the medical reporting process. See the division’s filing instructions.
Ask for copies of the documents you sign. Record when and how you provided them. If you cannot file through your employer, the division’s instructions explain how to contact its Benefit Consultation Unit for help.
Build a simple timeline.
Write down the injury date, the task you were performing, who saw what happened and when you first reported the problem. Add each medical visit and each insurer letter as they occur. Preserve emails or messages about reporting, scheduling, work restrictions and missed work.
A short chronological list is easier to review than a folder of unlabeled screenshots. Keep the originals and make a separate copy for notes. Describe events accurately, including anything you are unsure about.
Read the written decision.
The division explains that the insurer ordinarily has 60 days from the employer’s knowledge of the claim to accept or deny it. A denial letter should explain the reason and appeal rights. Save the letter and envelope, and obtain advice about the specific decision rather than assuming silence means acceptance.
If the insurer denies the claim, see our guide to organizing a denial for review. EWC Law’s workers’ compensation practice serves clients throughout Oregon.
General information about Oregon law. Your facts and deadlines matter; this page does not create an attorney-client relationship.