№ 04 · May 2026
beaconcover
Independent comparison desk
State regulatory desk

Small-business cover in Texas.

In Texas, workers’ comp is required at Workers' comp is generally optional for private employers (Texas is the only state where private-sector employers may opt out)[S]Texas workers' compensation threshold. Texas is the only state where private employers may opt out of workers' compensation (non-subscriber status), though doing so removes key liability protections. Governmental entities and private employers contracting with government must provide coverage. Many contractor and trade licenses are issued at the state or municipal level. Regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance.

Updated 2026-05-16 · Beaconcover editorial
§ 01
Workers' comp

What Texas requires.

TX threshold

Workers' comp is generally optional for private employers (Texas is the only state where private-sector employers may opt out)[C]Texas workers' compensation threshold

Texas is the only state where private employers may opt out of workers' compensation (non-subscriber status), though doing so removes key liability protections. Governmental entities and private employers contracting with government must provide coverage. Many contractor and trade licenses are issued at the state or municipal level. Regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance.

§ 02
Licensing & bonding

State licensing notes.

  • Non-subscriber employers face expanded employer liability — confirm before advising clients
  • Electrical and some trades require state licensing; many trades licensed locally
§ 03
Texas by trade

One page per trade × state.