Hiring Summer Workers? Insurance Essentials

As the weather heats up, many businesses experience a surge in temporary employment, especially in labor-intensive sectors. Imagine a small landscaping company ramping up its workforce to manage a wave of summer contracts. More hands often mean increased productivity, but they also bring additional responsibilities, particularly in insurance coverage. This blog post will walk you through the essential insurance coverages to consider when hiring summer help.

Workers’ Compensation

One of the first and most important considerations is workers’ compensation. Almost every state mandates that companies obtain this insurance, which includes coverage for seasonal employees. Neglecting this requirement can expose your business to severe financial burdens and legal challenges should a workplace injury occur.

General Liability

With the influx of less experienced workers, liability risks can increase. It's wise to review your general liability policy to ensure your business is sufficiently covered. This can protect you from various claims should accidents or other liabilities arise from a lack of experience.

Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)

When it comes to hiring processes, EPLI is another crucial coverage. This protects against claims related to wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage disputes during the hiring, onboarding, or termination of temporary staff.

Health Insurance

Under the Affordable Care Act, businesses with 50 or more full-time employees, including those who work 30 hours a week or at least 130 hours a month, might be required to provide health insurance. This eligibility extends even to seasonal employees, so it's crucial to ensure compliance to avoid penalties.

While boosting your workforce for the summer can enhance your business's capacity, it's equally important to ensure you're covered. Proper insurance coverage shields your business from potential risks and legal issues. To assess what specific coverages your business requires, consult with an insurance agent who can help tailor policies to your needs.