What it covers
- Medical care for an employee injured or made ill by their work.
- Part of their lost wages while they recover.
- Rehabilitation and, in the worst cases, death benefits for their family.
- Employer’s liability, which defends you if an injured employee sues.
Who needs it
Almost every business with employees. The rules are set state by state: most require cover from the first hire, a few only above a set headcount, and some treat part-time staff or certain trades differently. Sole owners with no staff are often exempt but can usually buy cover for themselves. Check your state’s workers’ compensation board for the current rule.
What it costs
The premium is a rate for each $100 of payroll, set by the job classification of the work. Office and consulting work sits at the low end; roofing, construction and other physical trades pay many times more. Your claims history then adjusts the rate up or down. Insureon’s small business customers pay a median of $54 a month ($643 a year); 47% pay under $50 and 71% under $100. Our cost calculator gives a starting estimate for your trade and state.
Get a real price
These figures are estimates. Only an insurer can give you a real price.
Direct online insurer
Fill in a form and see a price on screen. Best for simple businesses.
Example: Hiscox. Rated A (Excellent) by AM Best. Sold in 49 states and DC.
Hiscox pays us when you get a quote. It does not change your price.
Online broker or marketplace
One form, several insurers compared. Best if you want more than one price.
Local independent agent
Talk it through by phone or in person. Best for higher-risk businesses.
Find an independent agent near you (free directory, no payment to us)
Disclaimer: Informational only, not insurance advice or a substitute for a licensed agent. Coverage descriptions are summaries; policy terms govern. Availability and pricing vary by state and business; all figures shown are illustrative benchmarks, not quotes or offers.