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Rhode Island workers' compensation insurance: Your guide to requirements and getting a policy
If you’re a Rhode Island employer looking to protect both your business and your team, you’re in the right place. At Beyond, we provide the essential information you need to understand how workers’ compensation works and how to stay compliant.
Workers’ compensation insurance protects both your business and your employees in the event of a workplace injury or illness. For employers, it helps shield the company from expensive lawsuits and legal liability when accidents happen on the job.
Let’s walk through which Rhode Island employers are required to carry coverage and why it’s critical.
In Rhode Island, nearly all employers with more than one employee must maintain workers’ compensation insurance. This includes individuals, corporations, and public service organizations.
Employers are also required by law to display a workers’ compensation coverage poster at their place of business. This poster must outline details such as the insurer’s name, contact info, and policy effective dates.
Yes. Certain categories of workers are exempt, including:
Domestic service workers
Agricultural laborers
Casual employees and some real estate professionals
Some municipal workers (if the municipality opts out of coverage)
Corporate shareholders, LLC members, and general or limited partners
Sole proprietors and independent contractors are also generally exempt, but any independent contractor must file a Notice of Designation with each business they work for. If there’s uncertainty about a worker’s classification, Rhode Island’s Workers’ Compensation Court has final authority.
Coverage typically begins on the fourth calendar day after an injury occurs and includes:
Lost Wages – Weekly compensation for missed work due to injury or illness
Ongoing Medical Care – Coverage for continued treatment like physical therapy or surgery
Rehabilitation – Including physical, vocational, and psychological therapy
Partial Disability Benefits – For workers unable to return to full duty
Total Disability Benefits – For employees unable to return to any kind of work
Death Benefits – Financial support for the deceased worker’s dependents
You can purchase workers’ comp through any licensed private insurer. If you’re a new or high-risk business and struggle to secure private coverage, you may be eligible for state-funded options instead.
Failing to carry required coverage isn’t just a risk—it’s a serious legal violation. Penalties for non-compliance include:
$1,000 per day for every day you’re uninsured
Business closure until you obtain coverage
Fines up to $10,000
Felony charges and up to two years in prison
Additionally, employers who fail to post the required coverage notice may be fined $250.
Employees should seek immediate medical care after any workplace injury. They must also notify a supervisor or HR representative.
Employers are responsible for reporting the incident to their workers’ comp carrier within 10 days. If the injury results in death, it must be reported within 48 hours. Late or missing reports may result in a $250 fine.
Yes. Rhode Island law allows employees to select their own provider for the first medical visit, even if it’s an emergency or not pre-authorized. If they change doctors, and the employer has a designated list, the worker may be required to select from it. Otherwise, they’re free to choose.
If you need assistance, reach out to the Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation Fraud & Compliance UnitÂ
Other helpful links:
A workers’ compensation policy isn’t just a legal requirement in Rhode Island, it’s a safety net for your team and your business. It ensures injured employees receive care, while protecting your company from costly penalties and legal issues.
If you need help setting up coverage, the team at Beyond is here to assist you every step of the way.
