Massachusetts Workers Compensation Insurance-Workmans Compensation

Massachusetts Workers Compensation Insurance Rules

Massachusetts Workers Compensation

1. Does my Massachusetts business need workers compensation insurance?

All employers are required by state law to carry workers compensation insurance covering their employees, including themselves if they are an employee of their company. This requirement applies to both full and part-time workers. However, domestic service employees must work a minimum of 16 hours per week in order to require coverage.

2. In Massachusetts is there any exemptions from carrying workers compensation insurance?

Any corporate officer who owns at least 25% interest in the corporation may exercise their right to exempt themselves from the necessary workers compensation insurance coverage. This does not apply to employees of the corporation who are not corporate officers.

3. Does Massachusetts workers compensation law have specific requirements for subcontractors/contractors and sole proprietors?

There are no significant differences regarding workers compensation insurance coverage when it comes to subcontractor/contractor. Sole Proprietors may exempt themselves from workers comp insurance, however, any employees must be provided with the appropriate workers compensation insurance coverage.

Employee Leasing and Staffing Companies

Using a PEO or staffing company to obtain your workers compensation may be a good alternative to purchasing your own workers compensation policy. Leasing companies handle your payroll, w-2 forms, unemployment and workers compensation claims. In many cases the down payment required to obtain a new workers compensation policy is high and many new businesses cannot afford the down payment. Another advantage, based on my experience, is that you will never get audited because you pay as you go for your coverage. We represent numerous leasing and staffing companies who in many cases offer deep discounts on your workers compensation coverage that you will not find from standard workers compensation insurance carriers.

USL&H & The Jones Act

We have excellent workers compensation programs for these specialty risks requiring this endorsement. If you are unsure and want to read either the USL&H or Jones Act I have provided helpful links below for you convenience. I have found them to be the most detailed and good resources on the laws.

If you need a quote that requires this coverage

Click Here for a USL&H Quote

Click here for the complete USL&H Act, courtesy of Cornell University.
Click here for: USL&H & Jones Act Information
Defense Base Act Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation

Massachusetts Workers Compensation

Massachusetts Workers Compensation Links

News and Legislative Updates
Massachusetts Law Chapter 152
Massachusetts Workers Comp. Forms
Massachusetts Workers Compensation Rules 617-439-9030
Quick Facts and Contact Information