Workers’ Compensation is essential insurance coverage for many employers in Utah. An average of about 50 fatal workplace injuries occurred in Utah between 2018 and 2020, making it clear that Workers’ Comp can be vital for Utah employees and the companies that hire them.
With Workers’ Compensation, Utah employees who are injured or become sick due to work conditions can obtain compensation for their medical bills and lost wages. This insurance coverage can also help to protect employers from the financial impacts of these expenses. Thus, it serves as a safety net for businesses.
Most businesses are unique, which can require a tailored policy to meet their needs. Allow PolicySweet® to help customize an insurance plan for your Utah business. With our understanding of the local laws surrounding Workers’ Compensation, you can count on us to help you remain compliant. Contact us today to learn more.
How Does Workers’ Compensation in Utah Work?
Workers’ Compensation in Utah is a plan to help cover expenses related to employee work-related injuries. This can include medical costs and ongoing treatment fees. However, an injury must occur while the employee is on the job or performing work duties.
Here’s a general overview of what a claim looks like:
1. An employee incurs an injury while working.
2. They notify their employer about their workplace injury.
3. The employer should file a report to claim Workers’ Compensation.
Copies of the report may need to be provided to the insurance carrier and the state government.
4. If the claim is approved, the insurance provider could cover the medical expenses associated with the accident and injury.
5. The employee
can then agree to the compensation that the insurance company presents.
To set up your coverage, having an insurance provider that understands the ins and outs of Utah Workers’ Compensation on your side can be valuable. PolicySweet is here to help craft an insurance policy for you. Discuss your needs with us today.
What Benefits Does Workers’ Compensation Include?
Workers’ Compensation benefits that Utah companies can enjoy typically fall into a few categories:
Medical Expenses
Employees who experience a workplace accident can receive medical benefits to help cover the cost of care. Medical care expenses should be reasonable and deemed necessary for recovery from an injury or illness. Common coverages include doctor treatments, hospital bills, prescribed medicines, and physical therapy.
Lost Wages
Injured workers could lose wages from work for days missed. Workers’ Compensation insurance could cover the cost of wages during the time of recovery from a workplace injury or illness. This benefit, however, depends on the policy limits.
Who Needs Workers’ Compensation in Utah?
Most employers in Utah are required to provide Workers’ Compensation insurance. This coverage can include employees from head positions to seasonal hires. Employers should also post Workers’ Compensation insurance information in a prominent location for employees to see and know that they are working at a compliant company.
Some Exceptions
Utah has some exceptions to its Workers’ Comp rules. In particular, this could allow certain individuals to waive their rights to Workers’ Compensation insurance by securing a Workers’ Compensation Coverage Waiver. Eligible individuals include:
- Sole Proprietorships: An unincorporated business with no employees other than the owner can waive their claim of Workers’ Compensation.
- Partnerships: Professional partnerships without any employees except the partners may also waive their Workers’ Comp benefits.
- Limited Liability Companies: LLCs are like partnerships. Thus, their members may potentially be eligible for an exemption.
- Corporate Directors and/or Officers: Some corporations with no employees and who do not contract their work can file for exclusion of Workers’ Comp benefits. However, the notice can only include up to five directors or officers.
- Independent Contractors: These individuals can classify as any of the four previously mentioned categories. However, Utah specifically mentions that independent contractors are persons that work while being independent of the employer that benefits from their work, are not subject to the employer’s rules, work only a specific job, and are only subordinate to the employer for the duration of that job.
You can apply for an exemption online through the Utah Labor Commission’s web application. Be sure to prepare the documents it outlines on the page.
How Much Does Workers’ Compensation Cost?
Utah Workers’ Compensation policies can vary between companies. Moreover, insurance providers can factor in several aspects to help ensure a policy meets the specific needs of a company. Some factors include:
- Industry: How much risk does an employee face when working?
- Number of Employees: How many people work under the company seeking Workers’ Comp?
- Claims History: Has the company previously filed claims for Workers’ Comp?
At PolicySweet, we can discuss how much your policy is likely to cost. Get a free no-obligation quote now!
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Get a personalized plan to help your business comply with Utah’s Workers’ Compensation laws. Contact us today!
Please Note: State-specific information is subject to change at any time. Always consult with your state’s official information and resources for the most accurate information.