Minnesota Rehab Forms Explained (DSR, R-2, R-3, R-8, Rehab Request)
A plain-English guide to the most common Minnesota workers’ comp rehab forms-what they mean, what deadlines they trigger, and when to get help.
This page is meant to be a decoder ring for Minnesota workers’ comp rehab paperwork.
If you’re staring at a form and you want a quick answer, call or text The Comp Guys at (612) 568-5291. You’ll talk to an attorney right away. If you only want one specific question answered and don’t want to hire anyone, that’s OK. Just tell us and get right to it.
The core rehab forms you’ll see
DSR (Disability Status Report)
What it is: A status report often used by insurers to document whether rehab is being provided, denied, or waived.
Why you got it: Rehab is being started, discussed, or declined.
What to do next:
- If the claim is accepted and you’re off work (or on restrictions) and rehab is marked “denied/waived,” ask why.
- If you disagree, get advice quickly-early rehab decisions can affect return-to-work options.
R-2 (Rehabilitation Plan)
What it is: The initial written rehab plan.
Why it matters:
- It defines the rehab goal (return to same employer vs. new employer vs. retraining).
- It lists the services being proposed.
- It often starts the 60-day window to change QRCs (based on when the plan is filed).
Common confusion: The projected costs.
An R-2 is not a bill. Rehab services are generally paid by the employer/insurer (Minn. Stat. § 176.102, subd. 9; Minn. R. 5220.1900).
Sample (redacted): Samples are not published on this site right now. Ask your QRC/adjuster for a copy of the R‑2 packet you were sent, or request a blank copy of the current form.
Related guide:
R-3 (Rehabilitation Plan Amendment)
What it is: A formal change to the plan.
Common reasons:
- the employer can’t accommodate restrictions,
- you’re starting job placement,
- restrictions changed and the goal needs adjustment,
- timelines/cost estimates change.
Sample (redacted): Samples are not published on this site right now. If you received an R‑3, ask for the full packet and any cover letter that describes deadlines.
Related guide:
R-8 (Notice of Rehabilitation Plan Closure)
What it is: A notice that the QRC is closing rehab services.
Why it matters:
Closing rehab can be a turning point. If you still can’t return to suitable work, the closure record can become evidence in later disputes.
Common closure reasons (examples):
- return to suitable gainful employment,
- no further rehab services needed,
- medical restrictions resolved,
- noncooperation or failure to participate,
- other rule-based reasons (Minn. R. 5220.0510).
Sample (redacted): Samples are not published on this site right now. If you received an R‑8, ask for the basis for closure and the underlying plan documents.
Related guide:
Rehabilitation Request for Assistance (RFA)
What it is: A request asking DLI to help resolve a rehabilitation dispute.
People use it for disputes like:
- QRC problems (no follow-through, poor communication, plan not being implemented),
- plan disputes (R-2/R-3 disagreements),
- closure disputes (R-8 disagreements),
- rehab denials,
- retraining disputes.
Sample (redacted): Samples are not published on this site right now. If you need the current form, ask your QRC/adjuster or contact DLI and request a blank copy.
Related guide:
A practical way to decide “do I need help?”
You may be fine DIY if:
- your employer is offering suitable work and the QRC is responsive,
- the plan lines up with restrictions,
- everyone is communicating.
You should strongly consider talking to an attorney if:
- you received an R-8 and you’re not back at suitable work,
- you’re being told you must job-search but you’re not getting real help,
- you suspect the plan is being used to set you up for denial/closure,
- you are within the 60-day window after the R-2 was filed and you want to change QRCs,
- you feel pressured to accept work that doesn’t match restrictions.