Yes. California Labor Code Section 3700 requires every employer with one or more employees to carry workers compensation insurance. This applies to full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. Family members who work in the business are also generally considered employees.

Workers comp premiums are calculated based on your total payroll multiplied by a rate that depends on your industry classification code. Higher-risk industries like roofing have higher rates than office work. Your claims history also affects your rate through an experience modification factor.

One employee is all California requires to mandate workers comp coverage. There are no exemptions for small businesses. However, sole proprietors and corporate officers may be able to exclude themselves from coverage — we can advise you on the options.

Generally no — independent contractors are not employees and are not covered by your workers comp policy. However, California has strict rules about who qualifies as a contractor under AB5. If a worker is misclassified, you could be liable for their injuries. We help you navigate this correctly.

Yes. Many of our business clients are Spanish-speaking small business owners. We explain the entire workers comp process in Spanish — the premium calculation, coverage details, claims process, and your legal obligations as a California employer.