1. Does my Washington State business need workers compensation insurance?

Workers compensation insurance coverage is mandatory for all employers with one(1) or more employees. Most businesses participate in the state’s industrial insurance program(The Washington State Fund). A self-insured employer assumes all risks and costs of workers compensation insurance benefits out of company funds.

 

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

There are certain exemptions from having to carry a workers compensation insurance policy. You should contact your workers compensation insurance agent for these circumstances.

 

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

If you enter into a contract with a subcontractor/contractor who does not have their own workers comp policy, you may be responsible for providing workers compensation insurance for them. Sole proprietors with no employees or partner of a business, may elect to not carry workers compensation insurance.

 

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 Web Site - Dept of labor

Read the complete text of the Jones Act here.