Quick guide: Workers’ compensation in Nebraska
Your small business work comp questions answered
You’ve got a business to run so we’ll tell you what you need to know about workers’ compensation in Nebraska — what it is, who needs it, and where you can buy it.
What is workers’ comp?
Workers’ compensation insurance was created to pay for medical costs and lost wages if employees are injured at work. Benefits can also include payments to compensate for permanent disabilities and to dependents of workers who are killed in job-related incidents. It protects employees from the costs of work injuries and protects employers from lawsuits.
What does workers' compensation insurance cover?
Unlike other lines of insurance, workers’ compensation doesn’t offer different or optional levels of coverage for you to choose. When your policy is in place, it covers every work-related injury considered compensable by Nebraska state law. Workers’ comp benefits are spelled out by state law and don’t vary from policy to policy within the state.
How do I know if I need workers' comp insurance?
If you have even one employee, you most likely must provide workers’ compensation coverage under Nebraska law.
There are just a few exceptions, which are listed in the next question.
Are there any exceptions for family members, farms or small businesses?
There are a few exceptions in Nebraska workers’ compensation law, including:
- Household domestic servants in a private residence
- Some agricultural operations such as those employing only relatives or those employing fewer than 10 full-time employees for fewer than 13 calendar weeks (consecutive or not)
- Self-employed individuals, sole proprietors, partners and limited liability company members who don’t elect to be covered
How much will it cost?
Your workers’ compensation premium is based on how much your payroll is, how dangerous your industry is, and your business’s history of work injuries. If you have a clean safety record, it can help keep your premium low.
For more on how premium is calculated, see our Workers’ Comp 101 page.
Where do I buy workers’ comp insurance?
You have a couple options: you can use an independent insurance agent (find an agent in your area using the tool on our SFM website) or buy it directly from an insurance carrier like us. To get your workers’ comp coverage directly through SFM, request a quote online or call us at (844) 828-3801.
Where can I get more information on workers’ compensation in Nebraska?
Since workers’ comp coverage is mandated by the state, the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court page is your go-to source of information.
For safety requirements and information, check out the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Nebraska Safety Council websites.
Have other questions?
Find more questions and answers on our Workers’ Comp 101 page, or contact us!