Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Protect Your Employees and Business in NY
When employees get hurt on the job, your business needs more than a first aid kit.
Workers’ compensation insurance in New York covers medical treatment and lost wages for job-related injuries or illnesses, while also protecting employers from most lawsuits tied to workplace accidents. CNY Agency helps businesses throughout Syracuse, Liverpool, Binghamton, Rochester, and the greater Central NY region secure NY workers’ comp policies that meet state requirements and keep operations compliant.
NY Workers’ Comp Requirements
New York State law requires nearly all employers—even those with just one employee—to carry workers’ compensation coverage. This includes:
- Full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers.
- Family members who are on payroll.
- Construction and trade contractors, who often need to provide proof of coverage before starting a job.
Failure to carry workers’ comp can result in steep fines, stop-work orders, and legal liability. CNY Agency places policies with private carriers and ensures that coverage is structured to meet all NYS Workers’ Compensation Board requirements.
Coverage for Workplace Injuries
Accidents happen—even in offices, retail stores, or job sites with strict safety protocols. A workers’ comp policy pays for:
Medical expenses
doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and prescriptions.
Wage replacement
a portion of lost income if an employee can’t work while recovering.
Rehabilitation services
vocational training or therapy to return to work.
Employer liability coverage
protection if an employee sues for work-related injuries under certain conditions.
For example, if an employee in your Syracuse warehouse strains their back lifting inventory or a restaurant worker suffers burns, employee injury insurance in NY covers the medical costs and wage benefits while they heal.
Benefits to Employees and Employers
A workers’ comp policy does more than pay claims:
- For employees: It ensures prompt medical care, wage benefits, and rehabilitation support without costly legal battles.
- For employers: It reduces legal exposure by providing exclusive remedy protections, covering defense costs, and ensuring compliance with state law.
When workers are taken care of quickly, your team gets back to work faster—and your business reputation remains strong.
Cost Factors & How We Help
Workers’ comp premiums are based on:
- Payroll size and job classifications (higher-risk trades, like roofing or excavation, have higher rates).
- Experience modification factor (claims history).
- Safety programs and protocols (drug-free workplace credits, etc.).
CNY Agency shops multiple carriers and safety groups to find affordable workman’s comp in Syracuse NY and throughout the region, even for high-risk industries like construction or manufacturing. We can also help with:
- Reviewing job codes for proper classification (to avoid overpaying).
- Advising on loss control and safety plans.
- Preparing for premium audits.
Combine Workers’ Comp with Other Coverages
Workers’ compensation is just one part of a complete business insurance program. Most companies also need:
- General Liability Insurance – for third-party injuries or property damage.
- Commercial Auto Insurance – if employees drive company vehicles.
- Business Insurance Overview – to see how workers’ comp fits with property, liability, and umbrella coverage.
If you’re a contractor or small business owner, combining these policies with the same carrier can simplify certificates of insurance and often reduce overall premiums.
Frequently Asked Questions – Workers’ Compensation Insurance in NY
Is workers’ compensation insurance required in New York?
Yes. New York State law requires nearly all businesses with employees to carry workers’ comp coverage, even for part-time or family employees, with very few exceptions.
What does workers’ comp insurance cover?
It pays for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages if an employee is injured or becomes ill due to their job. It also includes employer liability protection against related lawsuits.
How are workers’ comp premiums calculated?
Premiums are based on your total payroll, employee job classifications (risk levels), and your claims history. We shop multiple carriers to find the best rates, even for higher-risk industries like construction.
Does workers’ comp cover independent contractors?
Typically no, but misclassification can lead to penalties. We’ll help review your workforce to ensure compliance with NY regulations and avoid costly fines.
Can I combine workers’ comp with other business policies?
Yes. While workers’ comp is separate from liability and property policies, we can bundle your business coverages (like general liability and commercial auto) with the same carrier to reduce overall costs.
Insurance, Simplified
Get Help with Workers’ Comp
From local shops in downtown Syracuse to contractors across Central and Upstate NY, we help businesses of all sizes secure workers’ comp coverage that meets state law and keeps employees cared for. We’ll review your payroll, job classifications, and claims history to find a competitive NY workers’ comp policy that works for you.
Start your quote on our Contact page (choose “Workers’ Comp Quote”) or explore our Business Insurance Overview to see how we can protect your full operation.
Your employees are your most valuable asset. Let’s make sure they—and your business—are covered.