Small-business cover in Washington.
In Washington, workers’ comp is required at Required for all employers with employees (monopolistic state fund — must purchase from WA L&I, not private carriers)[S]Washington workers' compensation threshold. Washington is a monopolistic workers' comp state — coverage is obtained exclusively through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), not private carriers. All employers with workers must register and pay premiums to L&I. Contractors must register and bond with L&I. Other commercial lines regulated by the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
Updated 2026-05-16 · Beaconcover editorialThe short answer: Business insurance in Washington starts with workers' compensation, required at Required for all employers with employees (monopolistic state fund — must purchase from WA L&I, not private carriers), plus the general liability that most clients and licenses ask for before you can take a job.
What does Washington require?
Required for all employers with employees (monopolistic state fund — must purchase from WA L&I, not private carriers)[C]Washington workers' compensation threshold
Washington is a monopolistic workers' comp state — coverage is obtained exclusively through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), not private carriers. All employers with workers must register and pay premiums to L&I. Contractors must register and bond with L&I. Other commercial lines regulated by the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
What licensing and bonding does Washington require?
- Workers' comp via L&I state fund only — not bundled with private carriers
- Contractor registration and a surety bond are required to operate legally