What are my legal obligations as a Texas employer regarding workers' compensation insurance?
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As a Texas employer, you are required to carry workers' compensation insurance for all of your employees, unless you qualify for an exemption.
Workers' compensation insurance provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. This insurance is designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Under Texas law, most employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. If you have at least one employee, you are likely required to carry workers' compensation insurance. However, there are a few exemptions that may apply. For example, if you are a sole proprietor or a partnership that doesn't have employees other than the partners, you may not be required to carry workers' compensation insurance.
If you are required to carry workers' compensation insurance, you must obtain coverage through a licensed insurance carrier or through the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission's self-insurance program. You must also post notice of your coverage in a conspicuous location in the workplace. Failure to carry workers' compensation insurance can result in fines, penalties, and legal liability.
In addition to carrying workers' compensation insurance, you are also required to report workplace injuries to your insurance carrier and to the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation. You must also provide information to your employees about their rights and responsibilities under Texas workers' compensation laws.
If an employee is injured on the job, you must provide medical attention as necessary and report the injury to your insurance carrier immediately. Failure to do so can result in penalties and legal liability. You should also cooperate with your insurance carrier and the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation, as necessary, to ensure that the injured employee receives the appropriate benefits.
In summary, as a Texas employer, your legal obligations regarding workers' compensation insurance include carrying coverage, reporting injuries, providing information to employees, and cooperating with your insurance carrier and the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation. If you have questions or concerns about your obligations, you should consult with an experienced employment law attorney.
