Is workers comp required in Vermont?
Vermont generally requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers compensation. Owners, partners and corporate officers are treated under their own rules, and some workers such as certain agricultural or domestic employees may be handled differently.
Buying coverage in Vermont
Workers comp in Vermont is a competitive private market. Agents compare carriers that write your class of business, and an assigned-risk option exists for employers that private carriers decline.
Who sets the rules
The Vermont Department of Labor, Workers' Compensation Division oversees workers comp in Vermont. In Vermont, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates.
What Vermont employers should know
- Vermont applies a strict test to decide whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor.
- Ski areas, dairy farms and construction trades are typical Vermont classes.
How premiums are calculated
Insurers in Vermont price policies from payroll by classification, then apply your claims experience and any credits or debits. Keeping payroll estimates current avoids a large audit adjustment. Learn more about how workers comp rates work and preparing for an audit.
Industry guides for Vermont employers
Contractor workers comp
Workers comp for general contractors and trades like roofing, electrical, plumbing and painting.…
Restaurant workers comp
Workers comp for restaurants, cafes, bars and caterers. Burns, cuts and slips, tipped payroll,…
Retail workers comp
Workers comp for retail shops, boutiques, convenience stores and specialty retailers. What it…
Small business workers comp
Workers comp for small businesses: when it is required, how premium works, pay-as-you-go billing…
Vermont workers comp FAQ
Is workers comp required in Vermont?
Vermont generally requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers compensation. Rules and exceptions change, so confirm your situation with the state agency or an agent.
Who oversees workers comp in Vermont?
The Vermont Department of Labor, Workers' Compensation Division administers the workers compensation system in Vermont.
Can I buy Vermont workers comp from a private insurer?
Yes. Private insurers write workers comp in Vermont, and a market of last resort is available for businesses that are hard to place.
How is workers comp priced in Vermont?
In Vermont, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates. Insurers in Vermont price policies from payroll by classification, then apply your claims experience and any credits or debits. Keeping payroll estimates current avoids a large audit adjustment.