Workers' Compensation Laws in Colorado
All public and private employers in Colorado must provide Workers' Compensation coverage for any full- or part-time employees. A person hired to perform services for pay—whether in the public or private sector—is presumed by Colorado law to be an employee.
CO Workers' Comp: Key Details
- Sole proprietors can purchase WC for themselves, but are not required to.
- A corporate officer of a corporation or a member of an LLC may choose to reject the requirement to carry Workers' Compensation Insurance.
- The following types of occupations / individuals are exempt from mandatory WC coverage in Colorado:
- Certain professionals who perform casual maintenance or repair work for a business for less than $2,000 per calendar year.
- Certain domestic work, maintenance, or repair work for a private homeowner that is not done full time.
- Licensed real estate agents and brokers working on commission.
- Independent contractors who perform specific for-hire transportation jobs.
- Drivers under a lease agreement with a common or contract carrier.
- Any person who volunteers time or services for a ski-area operator.
- Persons who provide host home services as part of residential services and supports.
- Federal employees and railroad employees (covered under federal laws).
- Independent contractors who don't have employees.
- Insurance must be purchased through a commercial provider, or if you have state approval, you can self-insure.
For in-depth information about Workers' Compensation requirements for Colorado businesses, check out the Division of Workers' Compensation from Colorado's Department of Labor and Employment.