Workers’ Comp Option Now Available for Ohio Employers Operating In Other States

A new workers’ compensation coverage insurance option is now available to eligible Ohio businesses for their employees who work in other states. The new offering will simplify workers’ comp for these employers, ensuring their employees are protected without the need to manage policies in multiple states with varying laws.

Employers can now apply for this coverage through policies issued by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) through a program with United States Insurance Services (USIS) and Zurich Insurance.

BWC does generally provide coverage for employees working temporarily outside of Ohio; however, complications can arise when an injured worker files a claim in another state. Treatment can be delayed and businesses can be subject to penalties by the other state.

A law enacted last year granted BWC the authority to contract with an insurer to provide this coverage. USIS and Zurich submitted a program proposal and were selected through a request for proposal process.

Employers must have the majority of their business in Ohio to be eligible for the coverage option. Interested employers will apply directly to BWC, which will determine eligibility and the premium cost for the optional coverage.  BWC will issue a Zurich policy to cover out-of-state exposures and Zurich will respond to any claims filed out of state.  Read more from BWC here.