How can I be sure my employer has workers’ compensation insurance?

It is up to each individual employer in Rhode Island to contact an insurance agent and select workers' compensation coverage that meets the requirements of state law. Employees can quickly and easily determine whether an employer has an insurance policy in place or if an employer is non-compliant. Additionally, an employee can report the employer to the Department of Labor & Training. 

Exemptions to RI Workers' Compensation Requirements

Under Rhode Island Workers' Compensation law, every person, firm, public service, or private corporation that has regular employees is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Employees can check the Rhode Island database of insured employers at the Director of the Department of Labor & Training to verify that their company has workers' compensation insurance in place.

However, there are employers and organizations that may not be required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, and there are employees who may not be covered. These include:

• Sole proprietors and partnerships. If you work for an organization that is registered with the state as a sole proprietorship or business partnership, the company may not be required to carry workers' compensation coverage.
• Government employees. Federal employees (such as postal workers, police, and firefighters) are covered under federal compensation programs, while municipal employees may only be covered if the municipality has elected to purchase insurance.
• Special services employees. In Rhode Island, certain real estate, agricultural, and domestic service employees are not covered by workers' compensation.
• Self-insured employers. Some employers may pay for the costs of a work injury out of their own profits instead of purchasing workers’ compensation insurance, while others may not be listed due to limitations with the policy information.
• Employers who are breaking the law. If employees are unable to verify coverage, the employer may be noncompliant or committing worker’s compensation fraud. Employees can check by emailing [email protected]. 

Have You Been Injured On The Job In  Rhode Island?

If you've been hurt at work you need to speak with an experienced workers' compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help work injury victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.