Why workers comp rules vary, and what to verify.
Workers comp requirements for contractors depend on your state and your business structure, including how owners and subcontractors are treated. This explains the common variables, not legal advice. Verify with your state workers comp agency.
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Why requirements vary
States differ on when workers comp is required, sometimes from the first employee, on whether owners and officers can elect out, and on how subcontractors and casual labor are treated. On top of the legal requirement, GCs and owners frequently require subs to carry their own coverage, so you may need it even where the state would not force it.
Subcontractors and the audit
Uninsured subcontractors are a recurring issue: their payroll can be added to your workers comp at audit, and their work can fall to your liability. Verifying subcontractor coverage is both a compliance and a risk-transfer step. Accurate class codes and honest payroll reporting keep the audit clean.
Verify and align coverage
Because the rules vary and change, confirm your obligation with your state workers comp agency, and make sure your coverage and subcontractor process line up with your contracts. This is general information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and contractor type and should be verified with the licensing board, the relevant state agency, your contract, and your carrier.
Common questions.
Do I need workers comp with no employees?
Can owners exclude themselves?
How do subs affect my workers comp?
Make sure your coverage meets the requirement
Licensing, bonds, and workers comp all point to specific coverage. We confirm your insurance lines up.
Line your coverage up with what you must prove.
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