Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Protecting your team isn’t just good business — in Wisconsin, it’s also a legal responsibility for most employers. Workers’ compensation insurance helps cover medical care, lost wages, and recovery support when an employee is injured or becomes ill due to their job. At Wisco Insurance, we help Wisconsin businesses secure workers’ comp coverage that supports compliance, protects employees, and safeguards the long-term stability of the business.
What Workers’ Comp Insurance Covers
Medical Expenses
Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, prescriptions, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment related to work-related injuries or illnesses. This ensures employees receive proper care without financial strain.
Lost Wages
Provides partial wage replacement while an employee is unable to work during recovery. This helps injured workers maintain financial stability while they heal and return to work safely.
Disability Benefits
Offers compensation for temporary or permanent disabilities that limit an employee’s ability to return to their previous role. These benefits help support employees through longer recovery periods or permanent changes.
Occupational Illnesses
Covers illnesses caused by long-term exposure to workplace hazards, such as repetitive strain, chemicals, or environmental conditions common in manufacturing, construction, and industrial settings across Wisconsin.
Employer Liability
Helps protect businesses from certain lawsuits related to workplace injuries, offering an added layer of financial protection beyond basic benefit payments.
Why Workers’ Compensation Matters in Colorado
It’s Legally Required
Wisconsin law generally requires businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Failure to comply can result in fines, penalties, and business disruptions.
Injuries Happen in Every Industry
From offices in Janesville to job sites in Kenosha or production facilities near Brodhead, injuries can occur in any industry. Workers’ comp helps ensure these incidents don’t turn into major financial setbacks.
It Protects Your Business and Team
Workers’ compensation supports employees during recovery while helping businesses avoid costly out-of-pocket medical expenses and legal disputes. It’s a foundational part of a responsible risk management strategy.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance FAQs
Who is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance in Colorado?
In Wisconsin, most businesses with employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even if they only have one employee. This includes full-time, part-time, and many seasonal workers. Businesses operating in communities like Brodhead, Janesville, and Kenosha must comply with state requirements to avoid penalties. Certain exceptions may apply in limited situations, but most employers should assume coverage is required and review their obligations carefully to remain compliant.
What happens if I don’t carry workers’ comp insurance in Colorado?
Failing to carry workers’ compensation insurance when required can result in significant penalties, including fines, stop-work orders, and liability for an employee’s medical costs and lost wages. In Wisconsin, employers may also face legal action and increased scrutiny from regulators. Beyond financial consequences, operating without coverage puts both your business and your employees at risk, making proper workers’ comp coverage essential for responsible operations.
Does workers’ comp cover remote employees in Colorado?
Yes, workers’ compensation generally covers employees who are injured while performing job-related duties, even if they are working remotely, traveling, or off-site. For Wisconsin businesses with remote staff, traveling sales teams, or employees working at client locations, coverage typically applies as long as the injury occurs in the course of employment. It’s important to review job duties and work arrangements to ensure coverage aligns with how and where your employees work.
Can independent contractors be covered under my policy?
Independent contractors are not automatically covered under workers’ compensation, but misclassification is a common issue. In Wisconsin, whether someone qualifies as an independent contractor depends on specific legal criteria, not just job title or payment method. If a worker is misclassified and injured, the business could still be held responsible. Some businesses choose to include certain contractors under their workers’ comp policy for added protection, especially in construction and skilled trades.
How are workers’ compensation premiums calculated in Colorado?
Workers’ compensation premiums are typically based on payroll, job classifications, industry risk levels, and claims history. Higher-risk industries like construction or manufacturing generally have higher rates than office-based businesses. In Wisconsin, factors such as safety practices, experience modification ratings, and workforce size can also affect premium costs. Reviewing payroll accurately and implementing safety programs can help control costs over time.