Missouri employers need to obtain workers’ compensation insurance and keep it active if they have five or more employees. There are a few exceptions: Farmworkers, domestic workers, commercial vehicle owners and operators, direct sellers, and some real estate agents are among the groups of employees who are exempt from the regulation. On the flip side, contractors in the construction industry that hire one or more employees must obtain workers’ compensation insurance.
Business entities that fall under the sole proprietorship or partnership are exempt from the coverage obligation unless they elect to purchase the coverage. Additionally, LLC members have the option of purchasing workers’ compensation or choosing the exclusion. Corporate officers must be included.
What if a Company Does Not Comply?
Strict laws govern which employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If a company does not comply, it is a Class A misdemeanor and a Class F felony if a second violation is committed. A jail sentence could be imposed for either one of these offenses.
Unfortunately, this doesn’t help workers who were injured and can’t easily receive workers’ compensation payments. Employees in this situation might be able to sue their company in civil court in order to obtain compensation for things like medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact Us Today
At the Law Office of Jerome Salmi & Kopis, LLC, our skilled attorneys can advise you of the law and how it applies to your workers’ compensation case, to help you claim the full benefits you need, and if necessary, appeal your case. Call us today at (618) 726-2222 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to learn more.
