Best Workers' Comp Insurance in North Carolina

Workers' comp rates in North Carolina depend on your industry type and team size. Find answers to common coverage questions below.

NEXT leads our research for workers' comp insurance in North Carolina, delivering top-notch customer support and comprehensive policy options that protect businesses thoroughly. The Hartford and Simply Business rank as strong second choices, both providing reliable coverage solutions for small business owners seeking quality protection.

>>Back to top

Here's a closer look at our top picks for workers' comp insurance in North Carolina:

>>Back to top

NEXT delivers the most affordable workers' comp insurance in the Tar Heel State at just $59 monthly or $710 per year. This saves business owners $5 each month compared to the state average of $64, representing 8% in savings that adds up over time. The Hartford comes in second at $61 monthly, while Thimble rounds out the top three most budget-friendly options at $61 per month as well. The table below shows costs from all companies we analyzed.

>>Back to top

NEXT offers the most affordable workers' comp coverage, starting at just $10 monthly for startups. NEXT dominates 34 industries, excelling in accounting, advertising and bakery sectors. Thimble ranks second for affordability across 19 industries, delivering top rates for auto repair, veterinary and wholesale businesses.

>>Back to top

Workers' comp insurance cost in North Carolina averages $64 monthly ($764 annually), falling below the national average of $74. Industry rates vary from $5 ($32 per employee) for speech therapists to $730 ($365 per employee) for roofers.

>>Back to top

These cost factors affect workers' compensation insurance rates in North Carolina:

>>Back to top

North Carolina law requires workers' compensation coverage for businesses with three or more employees, including corporations, sole proprietorships, LLCs and partnerships. Your policy must provide full medical treatment with no deductible and wage replacement at two-thirds of average weekly wages, up to the state's annual maximum.

Required workers' compensation coverage also extends to subcontractor employees if they lack their own insurance. Sole proprietors, LLC members and partners aren't automatically counted as employees but can opt in for coverage.

>>Back to top

While you're required to have coverage in North Carolina, some business categories are exempt from workers' comp requirements:

• Businesses with Fewer Than Three Employees: Companies regularly employing fewer than three employees aren't required to carry workers' compensation insurance, making North Carolina one of 11 states that set the threshold above one employee.
• Agricultural Employers with Fewer Than 10 Workers: Farms employing fewer than 10 full-time, nonseasonal agricultural workers are exempt from coverage requirements under North Carolina's agricultural exemption.
• Individual Sawmill and Logging Operations: Individual sawmill and logging operators with fewer than 10 employees who saw and log less than 60 days in any six consecutive months are exempt under North Carolina's unique 60-day provision.
• Sole Proprietors: Sole proprietors aren't automatically counted as employees but may choose to purchase coverage for themselves.
• Self-Employed LLC Members and Partners: Self-employed individuals who are LLC members or partners aren't automatically counted as employees but can elect to be covered.
• Independent Contractors: Independent contractors generally aren't covered by workers' compensation because they're not considered employees, though North Carolina law examines the actual working relationship beyond job titles to determine true employment status.
• Corporate Officers: Corporate officers may elect to be excluded from coverage but are still counted when determining if a business has three or more employees.
• Executive Officers of Nonprofit Corporations: Executive officers, directors or committee members of nonprofit corporations aren't automatically counted as employees if they meet certain requirements under North Carolina General Statutes.
• Domestic Servants: Domestic servants directly employed by a household are excluded from coverage requirements.
• Casual Employees: Casual employees whose employment is both casual and not in the course of the employer's trade, business, profession or occupation aren't covered.
• Federal Government Employees: Federal government employees in North Carolina are excluded from state workers' compensation requirements and are covered under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act.
• Certain Railroad Employees: Employees of certain railroads aren't covered by state workers' compensation and are typically covered under the Federal Employers Liability Act.
• Sellers of Agricultural Products on Commission: Sellers of agricultural products for producers on commission or other compensation are exempt, provided the product is prepared for sale by the producer.

>>Back to top

Here's how to get workers' comp insurance with the right provider at the best price.

>>Back to top

NEXT, The Hartford and Simply Business lead North Carolina's workers' comp market. Research each company's service quality, maximize discounts and select coverage that fits your budget.  

>>Back to top