Do Freelancers Need Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

​In recent years, more and more employers have been hiring freelancers and independent contractors. With the advanced technology available today, freelancers can utilize their specialized services to look for a job. Businesses employ independent contractors to keep costs down, but what happens if a freelancer is injured on the job?

Whether a worker is a regular employee or an independent contractor, their workers’ compensation cases are frequently disputed to learn about freelancers’ compensation insurance.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
A workers’ compensation policy will help if you get hurt on the job or experience a work-related illness. You can still get injured even if you’re not in a highly physical industry like content writing or photography. A workers’ compensation covers the following:

• Reimbursement for lost wages
• Protection from employee lawsuits
• Work-related sickness or injury medical costs
• Services needed to recover and return to work

When Do Freelancers Need Workers’ Compensation?
The law does not generally require freelancers or independent contractors to purchase workers’ compensation insurance. However, some self-employed individuals might buy a policy to:

1. Fulfill the Terms of a Contract
Some businesses mandate their workers to have insurance policies, especially workers’ compensation insurance. With this, the company limits its liability, and businesses will be financially responsible when a worker is injured.

2. Cover Medical Bills After a Work-Related Injury
Most policies don’t include coverage for work-related illnesses and injuries. So even if you have health insurance, purchasing independent contractor workers’ compensation insurance ensures your medical care is covered.

Hiring subcontractors will require you to purchase workers’ compensation insurance coverage, depending on what the laws in your state declare. Even if independent contractors have their own workers’ compensation policy, your state might require you to provide coverage for them.

Do Freelancers Need Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation provides benefits to your employees in cases of work-related injuries. While it’s often used for employer-to-employee relationships, the benefit also applies to independent contractors. 

If you’re a sole proprietor, your state may not require you to buy workers’ comp insurance for self-employed businesses. But if you work as a general contractor, you may have to purchase insurance if the contract you signed requires it. 

Buy Your Workers’ Comp Insurance Now!
If you’re a freelancer or an independent contractor, it’s essential to look for policies that cover you. Protect yourself from medical costs and lost wages for work-related injuries by purchasing workers’ compensation insurance today!

At Schneiderman Insurance Agency, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (818) 322-4744. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE. Topics and coverage discussed in this article are not guaranteed, consult with your agents to determine what your policy does and does not cover. We are more than happy to help!