State regulatory desk
Small-business cover in New York.
Workers’ comp threshold in New York: Required for virtually all employers with one or more employees (WCL §2 and §3)[S].
Updated 2026-05-16 · Beaconcover editorialThe short answer: In New York, workers' compensation is required for virtually all employers with one or more employees (WCL §2 and §3). Most clients and licenses also ask for general liability before you can take a job.
§ 01
Workers' comp
What does New York require?
NY threshold
Required for virtually all employers with one or more employees (WCL §2 and §3)[C]
Workers' compensation is broadly mandatory for employers under New York Workers' Compensation Law. New York City and other municipalities add local licensing for many trades. Employers must also provide separate disability benefits (DBL) coverage. Regulated by the New York Workers' Compensation Board.
§ 02
Licensing & bonding
What licensing and bonding does New York require?
- Mandatory disability benefits (DBL) coverage is separate from workers' comp
- NYC home-improvement contractors require a local license
§ 03
New York by trade
One page per trade × state.
HAHandymanCLCleaning BusinessJAJanitorial ServiceHVHVAC ContractorGEGeneral ContractorELElectrical ContractorPAPainting ContractorLALandscaping BusinessPLPlumbing ContractorRORoofing ContractorTITile ContractorCACarpet Cleaning BusinessLALawn Care ServicePOPool Service BusinessPEPest Control BusinessFOFood Truck BusinessPHPhotographerPEPersonal TrainerDADaycare / Childcare BusinessHAHair SalonNANail SalonDODog Walker / Pet SitterMOMobile Auto DetailingCACarpenterWEWelderTRTree Service BusinessPRPressure Washing BusinessCACatering BusinessMAMassage TherapistBUBusiness ConsultantINInsurance AgentACAccountant / CPAATAttorney / Law FirmARArchitectNONotary / Notary Signing AgentREReal Estate AgentITIT ConsultantHOHome InspectorRIRideshare Driver (Uber / Lyft)DEDelivery Driver (DoorDash / Instacart / Amazon Flex)