Is workers comp required in West Virginia?
West Virginia generally requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers compensation through a private carrier or approved self-insurance. 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 West Virginia
Workers comp in West Virginia is a competitive private market. Agents compare carriers that write your class of business, and an assigned-risk option exists for employers that private carriers decline.
Who sets the rules
The West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner oversees workers comp in West Virginia. In West Virginia, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates.
What West Virginia employers should know
- West Virginia moved from a state-run fund to a private market, so employers now shop coverage among private carriers.
- Coal mining, natural gas and timber are notable West Virginia classes with higher hazard ratings.
How premiums are calculated
Insurers in West Virginia price policies from payroll by classification, then apply your claims experience and any credits or debits. Keeping payroll estimates current avoids a large audit adjustment. Learn more about how workers comp rates work and preparing for an audit.
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West Virginia workers comp FAQ
Is workers comp required in West Virginia?
West Virginia generally requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers compensation through a private carrier or approved self-insurance. Rules and exceptions change, so confirm your situation with the state agency or an agent.
Who oversees workers comp in West Virginia?
The West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner administers the workers compensation system in West Virginia.
Can I buy West Virginia workers comp from a private insurer?
Yes. Private insurers write workers comp in West Virginia, and a market of last resort is available for businesses that are hard to place.
How is workers comp priced in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) provides the classification system and loss costs that insurers use to file rates. Insurers in West Virginia price policies from payroll by classification, then apply your claims experience and any credits or debits. Keeping payroll estimates current avoids a large audit adjustment.