Is workers comp required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire generally requires employers with one or more employees, including part-time workers, to carry coverage. Owners, partners and corporate officers are treated under their own rules, and some workers such as certain agricultural or domestic employees may be handled differently.
Buying coverage in New Hampshire
Coverage in New Hampshire is sold by private insurers. Every state also has a market of last resort, so even higher-risk or brand-new businesses can generally find a policy.
Who sets the rules
The New Hampshire Department of Labor, Workers' Compensation Division oversees workers comp in New Hampshire. In New Hampshire, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates.
What New Hampshire employers should know
- New Hampshire's rules for sole proprietors and partners differ from its rules for corporate officers, so ownership structure matters.
- Seasonal tourism and construction create payroll swings that should be reflected in policy estimates.
How premiums are calculated
Your New Hampshire premium starts with payroll in each job classification. Experience mods, schedule credits and minimum premiums then adjust it, and the year-end audit settles the difference between estimated and actual payroll. Learn more about how workers comp rates work and preparing for an audit.
Industry guides for New Hampshire employers
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New Hampshire workers comp FAQ
Is workers comp required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire generally requires employers with one or more employees, including part-time workers, to carry coverage. Rules and exceptions change, so confirm your situation with the state agency or an agent.
Who oversees workers comp in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Department of Labor, Workers' Compensation Division administers the workers compensation system in New Hampshire.
Can I buy New Hampshire workers comp from a private insurer?
Yes. Private insurers write workers comp in New Hampshire, and a market of last resort is available for businesses that are hard to place.
How is workers comp priced in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates. Your New Hampshire premium starts with payroll in each job classification. Experience mods, schedule credits and minimum premiums then adjust it, and the year-end audit settles the difference between estimated and actual payroll.