Suppose you employ domestic workers in Michigan for 35 hours or more per week for at least 13 weeks during 52 weeks. In that case, your home is legally considered a workplace. In such cases, having a workers’ compensation insurance policy is not just a requirement but a crucial protection for you as an employer. This policy can help cover medical expenses and lost wages if an employee has a work-related injury or illness while working in your home. It’s important to note that workers who accept benefits generally forfeit their right to sue the employer regardless of fault. Domestic workers include nannies, home health care workers, or anyone who performs household services full-time.
Why do you need Michigan workers’ compensation insurance if you employ a domestic worker?
Imagine a workplace injury occurring in your home. Without workers’ compensation insurance, homeowners may be held legally responsible. Penalties could entail covering the employee’s medical expenses, doctor visits, rehabilitation, medication, and lost wages. A severe accident involving your domestic worker could have dire financial consequences for your family. Moreover, Michigan can levy significant fines through the Bureau of Workers’ Disability Compensation for not having a worker’s compensation policy, further compounding the potential legal and financial burden.
The Penalties if you do not carry Michigan Workers Compensation
Employees who sustain injuries while working can sue their employers for civil damages. Suppose the employer is found responsible for the injury. In that case, the employer may be liable to cover the employee’s medical expenses and lost wages. In addition, employers without workers’ comp can face fines of up to $1,000 and jail time ranging from 30 days to six months.
Will homeowners insurance protect you if an employee sues you?
It’s important to understand that homeowner’s insurance does not extend to cover employees, such as nannies or domestic workers. Homeowners primarily use this insurance to protect themselves from workers’ injuries while working on their property.
How to get a Michigan Workers Comp policy for your domestic worker
Obtaining worker’s compensation insurance in Michigan is straightforward. You can either fill out the information on the coverage you need by clicking the MI Worker’s Compensation Quote button or call 248-277-4505 to speak to a Michigan insurance agent. This simple step can help protect you from potential financial liability and legal penalties, ensuring the safety and well-being of your domestic workers.
