Does Workers’ Comp Cover Owners?
Workers’ comp covers an owner only when state law and the policy include them, often through an election or endorsement.
New York allows some owners to include themselves and exempts certain owner categories when they have no employees. Your legal role and state law affect whether an owner is included by default or must elect coverage.
Check each owner’s status, state-specific election or exclusion form, payroll basis, and policy declarations. Confirm the treatment separately for every owner who works in the business.
Coverage Guides Related to Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Sources for Workers’ Compensation Insurance Answers
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance. National Association of Insurance Commissioners; Opening definition; mandatory coverage except Texas opt-in; exclusive remedy; monopolistic state funds; self-insurance note. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- State Workers’ Compensation Officials. U.S. Department of Labor; State and territory workers’ compensation contacts. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- What business owners must know. New York State Workers’ Compensation Board; Who needs insurance, independent contractors, owners and exemptions. Accessed 2026-09-25.