Sole Proprietors and Partners Not Always Covered by Workers’ Comp

March 29, 2024||inBusiness Insurance|business insurance, workers comp, workers compensation insurance

Workers’ Compensation insurance policies issued to Sole Proprietors and Partnerships do not provide coverage for the individual sole proprietor or partner(s) unless they elect coverage for themselves. This can leave a gap in workers’ compensation coverage as shown in chart.

What does this mean to you?

Sole Proprietors and Partners Not Always Covered by Workers' Comp
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

Sole Proprietors & Partner(s) – Make sure you have selected the proper coverage, as most companies already expect that you have it in place. You have bills to pay and could be injured like any other employee. Be sure you are protected so that you’ll have income in case you can’t work.

Other Businesses – Do not accept a certificate of insurance unless it lists the coverage status of the sole proprietor or partner(s). If you hire a sole proprietor or partner without elected coverage, he will revert to your workers’ compensation policy in an audit. This will increase your premium, especially if there is a loss. Ultimately, it is your decision whether or not to accept a certificate of insurance with excluded sole proprietors or partners; however, we recommend that you require “your” subs to have coverage in place to keep your costs down.

NOTE: This information is only a general description of the available coverages and is not a statement of contract. All coverages are subject to all policy provisions and applicable endorsements. Some coverage may be subject to individual insureds meeting underwriting qualifications and to availability within a state. For further information, contact a Murphy Insurance Agency professional.

Read Other Blog Posts

OSHA Safe & Sound Week

OSHA’s Safe and Sound Week Runs From August 11-17, 2025

More than 5,000 workers are killed on the job each year, and more than 3.6 million employees are seriously injured each year while at work. Because of this, OSHA holds a nationwide event each August called Safe and Sound Week, which promotes the importance of companies incorporating safety and health programs into their workplaces. This year, the event runs August 11-17, 2025.
Read more
Hudson Family Dental

Business Spotlight: Hudson Family Dental Providing Modern Dentistry in the Heart of Hudson

Hudson Family Dental has been providing modern, compassionate dentistry in Hudson, MA since 1988. With cutting-edge technology and a team dedicated to personalized care, they’ve earned the trust of local families for generations. Learn how this Main Street practice blends innovation with community values—and why Murphy Insurance is proud to call them a client.
Read more
File folders

Employee Benefits SAR Is Due by September 30 for Calendar Year Plans

Many employers that must file Form 5500 on behalf of their employee benefit plans must also provide plan participants with a summary annual report (SAR). The SAR is a summary of the information included in the Form 5500. Employers with plans that operate on a calendar year basis must provide the SAR by Sept. 30
Read more
Balance Scale 1200

Supreme Court Upholds ACA’s Preventive Care Mandate

On June 27, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a key component of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) preventive care mandate. Due to the Court’s ruling, the ACA’s preventive care mandate remains in full effect and health plans and issuers are required to continue covering the entire range of recommended preventive care services without cost sharing.
Read more
Updated Hazard Communication Standard

Updated Hazard Communication Standard from OSHA

Employers should review OSHA's the final rule on its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to determine how the changes affect them. Specifically, paying attention to their compliance dates for required actions which go into affect in 2026 and 2027.
Read more
Business Spotlight Rail Trail Flatbread Co.

Business Spotlight: Rail Trail Flatbread Company & New City Microcreamery

Our Business Spotlight shines on Rail Trail Flatbread Co., an upscale pizza place and the owners of New City Microcreamery and Less Than Greater Than speakeasy, a local business helping revitalize downtown Hudson and beyond. From wood-fired flatbreads to liquid nitrogen-crafted ice cream, this creative group has grown into a thriving family of restaurants and bars, each backed by the trusted protection of Murphy Insurance.
Read more
Business Spotlight Elbow Grease Marketing

Business Spotlight: Elbow Grease Marketing

We’re excited to launch our Business Spotlight series by featuring Elbow Grease Marketing, a valued partner and fellow Hudson-based business. EGM has played a key role in helping Murphy Insurance strengthen its brand and grow online. In return, EGM trusts Murphy for both business insurance and the personal insurance needs of its employees. Our partnership is a true example of what local collaboration can accomplish.
Read more
Attract Top Talent in Milford with Competitive Employee Benefits

Attract Top Talent in Milford, MA with Competitive Employee Benefits

In today’s competitive job market, offering strong employee benefits is no longer optional—it’s essential. For Milford, MA, businesses, Murphy Insurance provides customized, affordable benefit solutions that help you attract top talent, reduce turnover, and foster long-term growth.
Read more
Business Insurance in Worcester, MA What You Need To Know Original

Business Insurance in Worcester, MA: What You Need To Know

Running a business in Worcester, MA comes with both opportunities and risks. From property damage to cyber threats, having the right business insurance is essential to protect your investment. Murphy Insurance Agency provides customized coverage for local businesses of all sizes and industries. With over 85 years of experience, we offer trusted advice and tailored solutions to help your business thrive.
Read more

Visit Our Business Insurance Page

Business Insurance

Murphy Insurance stands as your steadfast partner in safeguarding your business from unforeseen challenges in today’s dynamic business landscape. In an era where comprehensive business insurance is not just a prudent choice but a vital one for ensuring the long-term stability and security of your enterprise, we are here to offer our expertise. Running a business inherently entails various risks that can potentially impact your financial stability and reputation. Learn more about our comprehensive business insurance solutions, which are meticulously designed to protect you from these potential threats, granting you peace of mind necessary to focus on the growth and prosperity of your business.