Maine’s Workers’ Compensation Rules

Paying for workers’ comp insurance in Maine doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget. Small business owners can save on their premiums in many ways, including the following:

• Classify your workers correctly. This is one of the most overlooked ways to reduce your insurance costs.
• Create a workplace safety program and ensure that all employees receive critical safety training. 
• Implement a drug and alcohol-free workplace program that educates your employees about the dangers of drugs and alcohol on the job.
• Ensure you have a return-to-work program available for injured employees.
• Apply dividends after your annual audit.

How can I get workers’ comp for my business in Maine?

Maine business owners have three options for purchasing workers’ compensation insurance.

Insurance Company: The most common method is to purchase coverage through an insurance company. Kickstand Insurance can give you an online quote in just seconds.

State Fund: High-risk businesses that cannot obtain insurance through a private insurance company can purchase a workers’ comp policy through Maine’s state fund.

Self-Insure: Finally, large businesses with the capital required can choose to self-insure. You will need to meet all the state’s requirements and submit an application with Maine’s Bureau of Insurance Self-Insurance Division. 

Are there penalties if I don’t carry workers’ comp insurance in Maine?

Businesses that are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance in Maine but fail to do so can face a wide range of penalties. 

For instance, business owners and decision-makers could be charged with a Class D crime and face up to $10,000 in fines or 108% of the insurance premium they would have paid, whichever is higher. In severe cases, the state may revoke the business’s license or corporate charter.