Workers' compensation is one of the most misunderstood requirements for Florida businesses, because the threshold depends on your industry.
Who is required to carry it
- Construction: one or more employees.
- Non-construction: four or more employees (full- or part-time).
- Agriculture: six regular or twelve seasonal employees.
Corporate officers and LLC members generally count as employees unless they file an exemption with the state.
What it covers
Medical bills and a portion of lost wages for job-related injuries or illness, plus employer's liability protection against injury lawsuits. It is a no-fault system: benefits are paid regardless of who caused the injury.
Exemptions
Construction owners can exempt a limited number of officers or members, and non-construction officers can exempt too, but exemptions must be filed with the state. You are not exempt by default.
Why it matters
Operating without required coverage can bring stop-work orders and steep penalties, and general contractors won't let uninsured subs on site. If you use subcontractors, you can be responsible for their comp if they don't carry it — a common trap for contractors. Pay-as-you-go plans base premium on actual payroll each period, smoothing cash flow.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Florida business with one employee need workers' comp?
In construction, yes. Non-construction businesses generally need it at four or more employees, and agriculture at six regular or twelve seasonal.
Can business owners exempt themselves?
Often, yes, but the exemption must be filed with the state. Owners aren't automatically exempt, and any covered employees still require coverage.
What happens if I don't carry required workers' comp?
You risk stop-work orders and significant penalties, and general contractors won't let you on their jobs.
Not sure if you need workers' comp?
We'll confirm your requirement and quote it with pay-as-you-go options, free.
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