Why Automating Payroll Is a Smart Move for Your Small Business
June 9, 2025
No Comments
Read More »
Missouri workers' compensation insurance: Your guide to requirements and getting a policy
If you’re a Missouri 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.
Employers with five (5) or more employees are required to purchase workers’ compensation insurance. This includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. Additionally, construction industry employers with even one employee must provide coverage. Missouri also requires LLC members and corporate officers to be covered.
Any Missouri business subject to these requirements must post a notice of coverage at their place of business.
Yes. Workers covered by federal law such as railroad, postal, and maritime employees are exempt. Other exempt categories include:
Businesses with 1–4 employees
Farm laborers
Domestic servants in private homes
Casual labor in a private home
Real estate agents and direct sellers
Volunteers at tax-exempt organizations
Sports officials and contest workers
Sole proprietors
Members of a partnership
Even if exempt, employers may voluntarily purchase coverage for themselves or their employees.
Missouri workers’ compensation covers the following:
Covers necessary medical care, prescriptions, and medical devices. Travel required for treatment is also reimbursed.
If the employee can’t return to full duties but can work in a limited capacity, TPD benefits compensate for lost wages during recovery.
If the injury prevents any work, employees receive weekly TTD benefits until they can return.
If the injury causes partial, lifelong limitations, the employee may receive a lump-sum payment based on impairment level.
If an employee can never return to work, they may receive weekly lifetime benefits or opt for a lump sum.
If a work-related death occurs, survivors (spouse or dependents) may receive weekly compensation and funeral expenses.
Most employers purchase coverage through a private carrier. Alternatively, they can apply to self-insure via the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation—either individually or as part of a group trust. For more details, refer to Chapter 3 of the Missouri Department of Labor’s Division of Workers’ Compensation.
If you’re having trouble securing coverage, your business can obtain it through Missouri’s assigned risk pool.
Failing to provide required coverage may result in:
A Class A misdemeanor
Fines up to 3x the required premium, capped at $50,000
Personal liability for any uncovered employee injuries
A second violation may be charged as a Class D felony
Employees must provide written notice of the injury within 30 days, including:
Date, time, and place of the incident
Nature of the injury
Name and address of the employee
The employer must then report the injury to their carrier or third-party administrator within 5 days. They also must file the First Report of Injury (FROI) with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation within 30 days.
The employer or insurance company typically selects the healthcare provider. Employees may use their own physician, but they will be financially responsible unless prior approval is granted.
For questions or support, contact the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation: (573)-751-4231
Helpful resources:
Even if not legally required, having workers’ compensation insurance is smart. It protects your team and shields your business from legal risk and financial penalties. If you have questions or need help choosing a policy, the Beyond team is here to help.
Having a workers’ compensation policy is a smart business decision. It protects employers from costly lawsuits and noncompliance penalties, while giving workers peace of mind knowing they’ll be taken care of after an injury or illness on the job.
If you have questions or need help setting up a policy, the team at Beyond is here to assist.
