Does My Maryland Business Need Workers' Comp Insurance?
Unlike many states that exempt small employers, Maryland requires workers' compensation coverage the moment you have one or more employees — full-time, part-time, seasonal, or temporary. This includes:
Limited exceptions exist for:
Because Maryland's threshold is so low, many new business owners are caught off guard — especially those relocating from states with higher employee-count exemptions. If you've hired even one person, it's worth confirming your compliance today.
Not sure if your business is covered correctly? Our licensed Maryland agents can review your situation and tell you exactly what's required — no obligation.
What Happens If You Don't Carry Required Coverage?
The Maryland Workers' Compensation Commission (MWCC) enforces this requirement through its Uninsured Employers' Fund. Employers who fail to carry required coverage can face:
Employers must also report workplace injuries to the MWCC within 10 days, and claims generally must be filed by the employee within a set window after the accident — so timely, accurate coverage and reporting matter as much as simply having a policy.
What Does Maryland Workers' Comp Cover?
A Maryland workers' compensation policy covers:
Maryland operates on a no-fault basis: an injured employee doesn't need to prove employer negligence to receive benefits, and in exchange, employees generally cannot sue their employer separately for the same injury.
A Note on Remote and Commuting Employees
If you employ remote workers based in Maryland, they're generally covered for injuries that occur while working — but Maryland's "coming and going rule" typically excludes standard commutes to and from a job site. If your business has a hybrid or remote workforce, this is worth discussing directly with your agent, since coverage nuances here trip up a lot of employers.
Workers' Comp for Maryland Contractors and Subcontractors
Maryland construction and trade businesses face particular scrutiny around classification — simply calling someone a 1099 contractor doesn't exempt you if the actual working relationship functions like employment. Misclassification can leave you exposed to penalties and leave injured workers without the benefits they're entitled to. We regularly help Maryland contractors:
Industries We Cover in Maryland
Why Work With Trans-Atlantic for Maryland Workers' Comp
Frequently Asked Questions
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