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Louisiana workers' compensation insurance: Your guide to requirements and getting a policy
If you’re a Louisiana 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.
When you run a business in Louisiana, ensuring the safety of your employees isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s the law. Workers’ compensation insurance is required for nearly every employer and plays a critical role in minimizing risk for everyone involved.
But beyond compliance, it’s about building a business that’s resilient, responsible, and ready for the unexpected.
Accidents happen — and when they do, workers’ comp steps in. This coverage takes care of employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses by paying for medical treatment and replacing part of their lost income. At the same time, it helps employers avoid legal claims and steep litigation costs.
It’s a win-win solution that keeps teams supported and companies protected.
In Louisiana, every employer with at least one worker — whether full-time, part-time, seasonal, or temporary — must provide workers’ comp coverage. Even a single employee on the payroll triggers the requirement.
While independent contractors are usually excluded, if your business hires a contractor to perform core functions — like in construction — you may still be on the hook for coverage.
Yes, Louisiana law outlines specific exceptions. Coverage may not be required for:
Sole proprietors without employees
Corporate officers who own part of the business
Domestic workers in private residences
Real estate agents and brokers
Certain farmworkers
Musicians or performers under contract
Federal employees (covered by separate laws)
Aerial crop duster crews
Volunteer nonprofit board members
Even so, it’s essential to review each situation carefully — rules can shift depending on your business type.
Workers’ comp policies in Louisiana include a wide range of benefits:
Medical Care: From emergency services to follow-ups and travel expenses for appointments
Wage Replacement: Temporary or permanent disability benefits, plus supplemental earnings for employees unable to earn their full wages
Rehabilitation: Job retraining and placement for workers who can’t return to their previous roles
Catastrophic Injuries: One-time payments for severe injury cases
Death Benefits: Financial support for surviving dependents, including funeral costs and weekly compensation
Louisiana employers can purchase coverage in several ways:
Through a licensed private insurer
By joining a state-approved group self-insurance fund
Or, for eligible businesses, by applying for self-insured status, which requires three years of financial records and security deposits
Need help navigating these options? Beyond is here to simplify the process and point you to trusted insurance partners.
Failing to provide workers’ comp isn’t just risky — it’s expensive:
$250 fine per employee for a first offense
$500 per employee for repeat violations (up to $10,000 total)
Possible criminal charges or forced business closure
Intentional or not, non-compliance carries the same penalties.
If an employee is hurt, they have 30 days to report the incident. As the employer, you’ll need to complete Form LWC-WC 1A-A and report the injury to the state.
Employees generally have:
1 year to file for medical or wage benefits
3 years to apply for supplemental earnings
1 year to report occupational diseases (like repetitive strain injuries) after diagnosis
In Louisiana, injured workers can choose their treating physician. They also have the right to switch doctors (with approval if it’s within the same specialty). Any ongoing treatment that exceeds $750 must be approved by the state.
Employers can also request a second medical opinion from a provider of their choosing.
You don’t need to handle everything on your own. The Louisiana Workforce Commission is a great place to start, and Beyond connects businesses like yours with compliance guides, training resources, and trusted providers.
Workers’ compensation isn’t just a legal box to check. It’s a way to demonstrate leadership, care, and commitment to your team. At Beyond, we’re here to help you protect your business, your people, and your peace of mind.
Need support finding the right policy or learning what’s required? Let’s go Beyond compliance – together.
