How to Write a Texas Workers' Compensation Letter to Your Employer When You're Not a Subscriber

By Sofia Martinez3 min read 378 views

Why the Letter Matters for Non‑Subscribers

In Texas, employees who are not covered by the state's workers' compensation system—often because they are classified as non‑subscribers—must rely on a formal written request to secure benefits or negotiate accommodations. The letter serves as documented proof of the incident, your claim, and your request for employer action, which can be critical if a dispute arises.

Table of Contents

Why the Letter Matters for Non‑Subscribers
Essential Elements of the Letter
Step‑by‑Step Drafting Guide
Sample Letter (Plain Text)
After Sending the Letter

Essential Elements of the Letter

Every effective letter includes six core components: your identification, incident description, injury details, request for action, reference to Texas law, and a clear deadline.

Header: Your name, address, phone, and email, followed by the date.
Employer information: Company name, supervisor's name, and address.
Incident summary: Date, time, location, and a concise narrative of what happened.
Injury specifics: Nature of the injury, medical diagnosis, and any treatment received.
Legal reference: Cite Texas Labor Code § 406.0015, which allows non‑subscribers to pursue common‑law claims.
Requested remedy: Compensation, medical expense reimbursement, or workplace accommodation.
Deadline: Typically 10–14 days for a response.

Step‑by‑Step Drafting Guide

Follow this sequence to ensure completeness and professionalism:

Start with a formal salutation (e.g., "Dear Mr. Lopez").

State your employment status and clarify that you are a non‑subscriber under Texas workers' compensation rules.

Provide a factual, chronological account of the incident.

Detail the injury and attach any medical documentation.

Explain how the injury affects your ability to perform job duties.

Reference the relevant Texas statute and your right to seek compensation.

Specify the exact remedy you seek and propose a reasonable timeline.

Close with a courteous request for acknowledgment and a signature block.

Sample Letter (Plain Text)

Below is a concise template you can adapt.

Section	Content Example
Header	Jane Doe123 Main St, Austin, TX 78701(512) 555‑1234jane.doe@email.comJuly 15, 2026
Employer	Acme ManufacturingAttn: John Smith, HR Manager500 Industrial Rd, Dallas, TX 75201
Opening	Dear Mr. Smith,
Employment status	I am a production associate (employee #4521) and, per my contract, I am not covered by Texas workers' compensation.
Incident	On June 30, 2026, at approximately 09:30 a.m., I slipped on a wet pallet in aisle 4, resulting in a left‑ankle sprain.
Injury	The attending physician diagnosed a Grade II sprain and prescribed physical therapy. See attached medical report.
Legal reference	Under Texas Labor Code § 406.0015, I may pursue a common‑law claim for workplace injuries.
Request	I request reimbursement of $1,200 for medical expenses and a temporary modification of my duties until cleared by my doctor (estimated 2 weeks).
Deadline	Please respond in writing by July 25, 2026.
Closing	Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.Sincerely,Jane Doe

After Sending the Letter

Send the letter via certified mail with a return receipt, and keep a digital copy. If you receive no response by the deadline, consider filing a claim with the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation, or consult an employment attorney to evaluate a common‑law lawsuit.