A simple guide to Texas Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance offers a layer of protection for business owners and employees alike. It covers medical expenses and lost wages for the employee who gets hurt on the job, and it helps you navigate lawsuits made against your business.
Each workers’ comp laws vary from state to state. If you live in Texas, you are not technically required by the state to get workers’ compensation insurance. However, there are certain guidelines in place for specific scenarios, according to the Texas Department of Insurance:
“Private employers who contract with government entities must provide workers’ compensation coverage for the employees working on the project. Some contractors may require their subcontractors and independent contractors to have workers’ compensation.”
Interested in learning more about Texas workers’ compensation benefits?
Texas Workers’ Compensation Insurance Requirements
As previously noted, you don’t necessarily need a workers’ compensation insurance plan if you operate a business in the state of Texas. But there are still requirements across the board, as the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation explains, whether you decide to opt in or out.
For example, you have to report all instances of injury or work-related illness when they occur, regardless of an insurance policy attached to it. All employers must fill out the DWC Form-007, Employer's Report of Non-covered Employee's Occupational Injury or Disease, to avoid penalties.
Additionally, non-subscribers have to file a DWC Form-005, Employer Notice of No Coverage or Termination of Coverage, every April.
If you do decide to invest in workers’ compensation, those who want to receive benefits must meet the following criteria:
- The injured person must be a working W2 employee or 1099 employee on the company’s insurance policy.
- The injury in question must have happened in the course of work.
- The person needs to file a claim and meet the reporting deadline.
Beyond the basic benefits of workers’ compensation, Texas also has supplemental benefits to provide, such as impairment income and lifetime income options. Even death and burial benefits can be offered in a workers’ compensation policy.
Finding a Texas Workers’ Compensation Insurance Company
Are you searching for workers’ compensation insurance in Texas but you don’t know where to start? At Kickstand Insurance, we understand you don’t need to invest in workers’ compensation insurance, but we know the benefit of having peace of mind in disastrous workplace scenarios.
Protecting your business and employees should always be a top priority. With workers’ compensation insurance from Kickstand, you can avoid fines while safeguarding your workers and avoiding lawsuits.
The best part? We can provide an instant quote so you can get an idea if workers’ compensation insurance fits into your budget upfront. Fill out our form to get your quote in less than 10 minutes.
Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal or insurance advice. Laws and regulations regarding workers' compensation insurance are complex and vary by state and by specific circumstances. Therefore, readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified legal or insurance professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem they might have.
Mordechai Kamenetsky, co-founder and lead agent of Kickstand, is recognized as an expert in workers' compensation. He is passionate about helping small businesses manage risks and lower their workers' comp costs. In his articles, he educates readers and clients on the intricacies of workers' comp insurance.
