Black Lung Program

No-Cost Hospice Care Services

Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation (DCMWC)

The mission of the Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation, or Federal Black Lung Program, is to administer claims filed under the Black Lung Benefits Act. The Act provides compensation to coal miners who are totally disabled by pneumoconiosis arising out of coal mine employment, and to survivors of coal miners whose deaths are attributable to the disease. We administer benefits paid from the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund and by responsible coal mine operators under Part C of the Act, and benefits paid under Part B of the Act, to ensure that all payments are accurate and timely. In addition to monthly compensation, we provide eligible miners with medical coverage for the treatment of lung diseases related to pneumoconiosis. We identify and work with coal mine operators and insurers so that liability for payment of benefits is properly assigned.

The Federal Black Lung Program - Eligible Customers Include:

Entitlements Under The Federal Black Lung Program

Reliable Monetary Benefits:

Black Lung benefits form a substantial percentage of income for many recipients. Benefit payments are issued monthly. The Program is proud of its track record when it comes to benefit delivery and customer service. Recipients can count on receiving their payments every month, and that when they write or call to report changes or ask questions, they will receive a prompt and courteous response. The Program also contacts every beneficiary by mail annually in order to make sure that benefit information is up-to-date.
 
Access to Medical Treatment:

The Program provides medical treatment for respiratory conditions related to treatment for black lung disease.  Medical treatment bills are monitored and subject to audit to ensure that the requested treatments are necessary and that payments are correct.

Filing Claim for Benefits Under Black Lung Benefits Act:

Filing Claim as Active or Retired Miner:

If you are filing on your record of employment in the coal mining industry, you must complete a CM-911, Miner’s Claim for Benefits, and related forms.

 

Filing Claim as Survivor of Miner:

If you are filing on the employment record of a deceased miner, you must complete a CM-912, Survivor’s Claim for Benefits, and related forms.

 

Filing Claim on Behalf of Another Person:

If you are filing a claim on behalf of a minor child or on behalf of someone under a legal or physical impairment, please consult 20 CFR 725.301 to make sure that you are eligible to file. Benefits are payable only to the beneficiary, his or her representative payee, or his or her legal guardian.

 
If you are acting as a lay representative for a miner or a survivor, you must submit a written statement to that effect and signed by the claimant in addition to the claim forms. Lay representatives may be benefits counselors, family members, or any other non-attorney approved by the appropriate adjudication official, usually the District Director at the time a claim is filed. If you are an attorney representing the claimant, your written declaration of representation must be submitted but the claimant’s written appointment is not required. Please consult 20 CFR 725.362 for additional information for representatives.

Division of Coal Mine Workers'
(DCMWC)

Black lung x ray
Black lung

Step-By-Step Guide - Filing for DCMWC Benefits:

The steps outlined here are intended as a “quick-start” guide for active or retired miners. More detailed information about filing a claim as an active or retired miner is available on our website. Should you have any questions, please contact the District Office that has jurisdiction over your claim.

Step 1: Complete the application form entitled, “Miner’s Claim for Benefits under the Black Lung Act” (form CM-911)

Step 2: Complete the form entitled, “Employment History” (form CM-911a)

Step 3: Review SSA-581 instructions and complete two copies of the form entitled, “Authorization to Obtain Earnings Data from the Social Security Administration” (SSA-581)

Step 4: Review “Selection of Examining Provider” instructions and complete the “Selection of Examining Provider” form. Please note, you should select a provider in your home state or a contiguous state. A list of approved providers is available.