It’s natural to wonder what options Colorado employers have in providing workers’ compensation insurance coverage to their employees.
Every employer in the state is required to have a current policy – and it’s unlawful for them to require employees pay for even the smallest amount of Colorado workers’ compensation premiums. Insurance premiums are the sole responsibility of the employer.
Below are three options employers can choose to be in compliance with Colorado’s workers’ compensation laws.
1. Insurer of last resort – Pinnacol Assurance
Employers in Colorado can cover their employers through the state’s insurer of last resort, Pinnacol Assurance. Employers apply for and pay premiums to Pinnacol for coverage. In the event of an on-the-job injury, Pinnacol is responsible for paying for the employee’s care.
2. Private company authorized to offer workers’ compensation coverage in Colorado
The second option employers can choose to cover their employees is to apply for and pay premiums to any one of the many private insurers authorized to do business in Colorado. Employers choosing this route must notify the Division of Workers’ Compensation in Colorado of the insurer’s name and address.
3. Obtain a permit for self-insurance from the Dept. of Labor and Employment
The third and final option employers have to cover their employees against on-the-job injuries in Colorado is to do it themselves. But in order to do this, they must obtain permission from the state’s Department of Labor and Employment. This option is limited to companies with a minimum of 300 employees.
Click on over and read our newest article, 3 Types of Colorado Workers’ Compensation Insurance, in the Colorado workers’ compensation knowledge center to learn more about each of these options. Knowing the type of insurance coverage your employer carries is important for ensuring you are properly compensated for any on-the-job injuries.
