Workers' Compensation Insurance in St. Charles, MO

When Missouri requires it, what it pays for, and what employers in St. Charles County should know before they hire.

Opening soon · Not yet quoting or selling insurance

Who has to carry it

Missouri employers with five or more employees are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. In the construction industry, the requirement starts at one employee. Part-time employees count toward the number.

Source: Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation. The rules for owners, LLC members, corporate officers and certain industries are more detailed than a summary can cover, so confirm how they apply to your business with the Division.

Firstway is a new independent agency opening soon in Wentzville. We aren't quoting or selling policies yet.

What it pays for

Medical care

Treatment for an injury or illness that comes from the job.

Lost wages

A portion of the employee's pay while they're unable to work.

Disability and death benefits

Payments for lasting impairment, and benefits to a family if a worker dies from a job injury.

Employer's liability

Protection for the business if it is sued over a work injury.

Employers below the threshold

A business that isn't required to carry workers' compensation can still choose to. Without it, an injured employee's recourse is a lawsuit against the business, and there is no policy to pay for the defense or the result.

Subcontractors and certificates

In construction, a contractor can end up responsible for injuries to the employees of an uninsured subcontractor. That is why general contractors ask every subcontractor for a certificate showing workers' compensation coverage, and why insurers ask for those certificates at audit time. More on this on our contractors insurance page.

How the premium is worked out

Workers' compensation premiums are based on payroll and on the type of work each employee does. The policy starts with an estimate of the year's payroll, and after the policy period the insurer audits the actual figures and adjusts the premium up or down. Keeping payroll records and subcontractor certificates organized makes the audit much simpler.

Workers' compensation questions

Is workers' compensation required with fewer than five employees?

Outside the construction industry, Missouri generally does not require it below five employees, though an employer can choose to carry it. In construction, it is required with one or more employees.

Do part-time employees count?

Yes. Missouri counts both full-time and part-time employees toward the number.

What is a premium audit?

After the policy period ends, the insurer compares the payroll that was estimated with the payroll that was actually paid, and adjusts the premium to match.

Can Firstway quote workers' compensation yet?

No. Firstway isn't open, and we don't quote or sell insurance until we are licensed. Leave your name on this page and we'll contact you when we open.