Who Must Carry Workers’ Comp Insurance?
All employers in Massachusetts (and in every other state except Texas) are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, more commonly referred to as workers’ comp.
What is Workers’ Comp?
Workers’ compensation insurance covers lost wages and medical treatment resulting from an employee’s work-related injury or illness regardless (in most cases) of who was at fault. This includes:
- Medical care
- Replacement income (typically 2/3 of the employee’s average wage, but there are maximum limits)
- Servic
es to help the employee recover and return to work, such as retraining - Compensation for permanent injuries
- Benefits to survivors of employees killed on the job
While the range of injuries or illnesses covered is broad, there are some limits. For example, if the employee is found to have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of injury, if the injury was self-inflicted, or if the employee was violating company policy at the time of the injury, compensation may be denied.
Why Does My Business Need Workers’ Comp?
In addition to the fact that all employers must carry workers’ comp by law, it’s important to remember that it protects both employees and employers.
For example, because it covers services needed to help employees return to work, workers’ comp can help reduce the impact of lost productivity. Also, employees who receive workers’ compensation cannot sue their employer for injuries or illnesses sustained on the job, protecting businesses financially.
We’ll work with you to make sure your company has the necessary coverage to meet state laws and protect your business from productivity losses and expenses. Contact us today to learn more.