When is workers' compensation required in Washington, D.C.?

When an employer has one or more employees. Domestic workers employed 240+ hours per 13-week quarter may also trigger requirements for homeowners.

What are penalties for not carrying D.C. workers' comp?

Employers failing to obtain required coverage may be fined up to $10,000.

Are sole proprietors covered by D.C. workers' comp?

Sole proprietors and partners are generally excluded from mandatory coverage but may elect coverage depending on circumstances.

Who administers D.C. workers' compensation?

The DC Office of Workers' Compensation within the Department of Employment Services oversees compliance, claims, and employer requirements.

Washington, D.C. Workers' Compensation Insurance

Brief overview of D.C. workers' compensation — 1+ employee threshold, employer duties, and official resources.

Overview

Workers' compensation provides benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses. In Washington, D.C., it is District-mandated for many employers.

See our workers' compensation explainer and D.C. business insurance guide for details.

Coverage Options to Consider

Workers' comp is not optional for qualifying employers — coverage is obtained from a licensed carrier, approved self-insurance, or registered PEO.

It covers employee medical treatment and wage replacement; it does not replace general liability or commercial auto.

State Requirements & Regulations

Threshold: Employers with one or more employees must carry coverage. Homeowners employing domestic workers 240+ hours per 13-week quarter may also need coverage.

Exceptions: Sole proprietors, partners, casual workers, and unpaid volunteers are generally not covered; federal and District government employees have separate programs.

Administered by the DC Office of Workers' Compensation.

Compare: Virginia requires coverage at 3+ employees — important if you operate across the DMV.

Factors That May Affect Your Premium

Payroll, employee job classifications (risk codes), claims history (experience mod), and industry type drive workers' comp premiums. Rates are filed with the state; the Office does not set premiums.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is workers' compensation required in Washington, D.C.?: When an employer has one or more employees. Domestic workers employed 240+ hours per 13-week quarter may also trigger requirements for homeowners.
What are penalties for not carrying D.C. workers' comp?: Employers failing to obtain required coverage may be fined up to $10,000.
Are sole proprietors covered by D.C. workers' comp?: Sole proprietors and partners are generally excluded from mandatory coverage but may elect coverage depending on circumstances.
Who administers D.C. workers' compensation?: The DC Office of Workers' Compensation within the Department of Employment Services oversees compliance, claims, and employer requirements.

Sources & References

Workers' Compensation — DC Department of Employment Services — DC Department of Employment Services
Workers' Compensation Insurance Explained — US Insurance Guide
Business Insurance in Washington, D.C. — US Insurance Guide