Is workers' compensation required in Virginia?

Yes, for employers who regularly employ more than two part-time or full-time employees — meaning three or more. Coverage is mandatory with no waivers for qualifying employers.

Is general liability required for Virginia businesses?

Virginia does not require GL for all businesses, but landlords, clients, and licensing boards often require proof of coverage.

Do I need commercial auto insurance in Virginia?

If your business owns or primarily uses vehicles for work, you likely need commercial auto rather than personal coverage.

Where do I verify Virginia business insurance rules?

Workers' comp: Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission. Auto and general insurance: Virginia Bureau of Insurance.

Virginia Business Insurance

Brief overview of Virginia business insurance — workers' comp threshold, common coverage types, and official resources.

Overview

Virginia businesses face a mix of state mandates, contract requirements, and optional coverage. No single policy covers every exposure.

See our business insurance in Virginia guide for workers' comp rules, coverage types, and industry considerations.

Coverage Options to Consider

Coverage	Often required?
Workers' compensation	Yes, if you regularly employ 3+ workers
Commercial auto	If you operate business vehicles
General liability	Contractually; not universal by law
Commercial property / BOP	Optional; often required by lenders
Professional liability, cyber	By license or contract

State Requirements & Regulations

Workers' compensation: Employers with more than two employees (3+) must carry coverage. Subcontractor employees performing the same trade may count. No waivers for qualifying employers. Administered by the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission.

Commercial auto: Business vehicles must meet Virginia auto minimums (50/100/25).

General liability: Not mandated for all businesses, but common in leases and contracts.

Factors That May Affect Your Premium

Industry classification, payroll, claims history, number of employees, vehicles, location, and coverage limits selected. Workers' comp rates vary significantly by trade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is workers' compensation required in Virginia?: Yes, for employers who regularly employ more than two part-time or full-time employees — meaning three or more. Coverage is mandatory with no waivers for qualifying employers.
Is general liability required for Virginia businesses?: Virginia does not require GL for all businesses, but landlords, clients, and licensing boards often require proof of coverage.
Do I need commercial auto insurance in Virginia?: If your business owns or primarily uses vehicles for work, you likely need commercial auto rather than personal coverage.
Where do I verify Virginia business insurance rules?: Workers' comp: Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission. Auto and general insurance: Virginia Bureau of Insurance.

Sources & References

Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission — Employers — Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission
Virginia Bureau of Insurance — Virginia State Corporation Commission
Business Insurance in Virginia (full guide) — US Insurance Guide