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Oklahoma workers' compensation insurance: Your guide to requirements and getting a policy
If you’re an Oklahoma 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.
At its core, workers’ compensation insurance exists to shield both employers and employees from the financial fallout of workplace injuries or illnesses. It helps protect businesses from lawsuits and penalties, while giving employees peace of mind knowing they’ll receive care and benefits if something goes wrong on the job.
In Oklahoma, any business with at least one full- or part-time employee must carry workers’ compensation insurance. If this applies to you, you’re also required to post Form CC-1A where employees can easily see it.
Yes, some employers are not required to carry coverage. Exemptions apply to:
Agricultural or horticultural workers (if payroll was under $100,000 last year)
Federal government employees
Licensed real estate professionals paid by commission
Individuals delivering care under DHS direction (excluding nursing home staff)
Family-run businesses with fewer than five related employees
Independent contractors
Sole proprietors
Partners and LLC members who are also owners
If your business qualifies for an exemption, you’ll need to file a CC-Form 36A Affidavit of Exempt Status. There’s a $50 fee, and the affidavit remains valid for two years.
Employees covered under a valid workers’ comp policy may receive:
Medical treatment: Full coverage for doctor visits, prescriptions, and necessary equipment like crutches
Ongoing medical care: Continued treatment when recommended by the provider
Temporary disability benefits: Available for both partial and total temporary disability
Permanent disability: Paid based on the employee’s ability (or inability) to return to any type of work
Vocational rehabilitation: Retraining and placement assistance for employees who can’t return to their previous job
Death benefits: Available to surviving spouses and dependents
Certain incidents are excluded, including:
Injuries in parking lots not exclusively controlled by the employer
Incidents involving alcohol or drugs
Injuries during personal recreational activities
Pre-existing conditions not aggravated at work
Injuries that happen during unauthorized breaks
Unlike some states, Oklahoma allows businesses to purchase coverage from private insurance companies. Employers can also apply for:
Self-insurance
Group self-insurance associations (approved by the state)
Qualified employer status (requires state approval)
Need help? Beyond offers guidance and support to ensure your business stays protected and compliant.
Not having proper coverage in Oklahoma can result in penalties up to $1,000 per day, plus civil fines and potential shutdowns until you comply. It’s simply not worth the risk.
Employees must report incidents promptly. From there:
Employers have five days to provide access to medical treatment.
In case of emergencies, employees can seek immediate care—at the employer’s expense.
Employers typically select the treating physician. However:
If the employer doesn’t provide care access within five days, the employee can choose their own doctor.
Employees may also request a one-time physician change, selecting from a list provided by the employer or insurer.
Need more help? Contact the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Helpful links:
If you’re running a business in Oklahoma, having a workers’ compensation policy isn’t just smart, it’s required. It protects your team, keeps your business compliant, and saves you from costly lawsuits or penalties. Beyond is here to help you understand the rules and secure the right coverage.
