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WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE

Workers compensation insurance for employers.

Almost every state requires workers compensation insurance once a business has employees. Four states (Ohio, North Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming) operate monopoly state funds where WC must be purchased through the state. Everywhere else it is placed through private carriers. WC covers medical treatment, lost wages, and employer liability for work-related injuries and occupational illnesses.

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WHAT'S COVERED

What workers compensation covers.

Medical treatment for work-related injuries

Pays medical bills for injuries arising out of and in the course of employment. Includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, prescriptions, physical therapy, and ongoing care related to the injury.

Wage replacement during disability

Pays a percentage of the injured worker's wages while they are unable to work. The percentage and duration vary by state and the type of disability (temporary, permanent, partial, total).

Death and survivor benefits

Pays funeral costs and ongoing benefits to surviving dependents if a workplace injury results in death. Limits and eligibility are set by state law.

Employer liability

The second part of a standard WC policy. Covers the employer if an injured worker or family member sues outside the workers comp system, which can happen in third-party-over-action cases and certain other situations.

IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS

What workers compensation does not cover.

Independent contractors

True independent contractors are not covered under your WC policy. Misclassifying employees as contractors is a common audit finding and can result in significant back-premium and penalties.

Injuries outside the course of employment

Injuries during a worker's commute (in most cases), on a personal errand during a paid break, or while engaged in a clear violation of company policy may not be covered. State rules vary widely.

Self-inflicted injury and intoxication

Intentionally self-inflicted injuries and injuries caused by the worker's own intoxication or drug use are generally excluded, though state rules differ on the burden of proof.

Owners and officers in some structures

Sole proprietors, partners, and corporate officers can often elect to be included or excluded from WC coverage. Default treatment varies by state and business structure.

OUR CARRIER PANEL

Carriers We Use for This Coverage

All carriers are A-rated by AM Best and appointed in the state. We compare them and recommend the right fit.

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CLAIMS TIPS

If You Need to File a Claim

Practical guidance for the first 24 hours, what to document, common mistakes to avoid, and when to call us.

Common questions

Can my insurance carrier deny my claim?

Yes, for specific policy reasons that must be in writing. You can challenge a denial.

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What is a recorded statement and should I give one?

An on-record interview the carrier uses for the file. Give one, but prepare first and never speculate.

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What happens after I report a claim to my insurance carrier?

Acknowledge, assign adjuster, investigate, decide. Most carriers move within 7-30 days for routine claims.

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Do I have to use the carrier's preferred contractor?

Usually no. Most policies let you choose any licensed contractor, though preferred shops have their own benefits.

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GET STARTED

Have employees?

Almost every state requires workers compensation once you have employees. Send us your payroll and class codes and we will compare carriers.

Varies widely by state, industry class code, payroll, and claims history. Most small businesses pay between $1.00 and $5.00 per $100 of payroll. High-risk class codes can be significantly higher.

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