What is the primary purpose of the DWC-1 form?

• A. Initiate a workers' compensation claim
• B. Notify the employee of rights
• C. Request a settlement
• D. Confirm medical treatment

Answer: (A)

The DWC-1 is the Employee's Claim for Workers' Compensation Benefits, and its primary function is to initiate the workers' compensation claim. When a work-related injury occurs, the employee uses this form to formally notify the employer and the workers' compensation insurer that they are seeking benefits. This starts the claim process and triggers eligibility for benefits such as medical treatment and disability payments. It isn’t primarily used to notify rights, request a settlement, or confirm medical treatment—settlements come later after claim processing and negotiations, and medical treatment is arranged through the provider network and insurer authorization, not by the act of submitting the DWC-1.