What are the requirements for worker's compensation insurance for domestic workers in California?

Question

My parents live in California and have hired a domestic worker. Do they have to buy worker's compensation insurance for her?

Answer 1

If she is working full time at your house and cannot be considered an "independent contractor" then, yes, you parents should technically purchase workers compensation for her. This is generally something that can be tacked on to a homeowner's policy. They could opt not to purchase the insurance, but they would be exposed if something were to happen and they could be held liable (e.g. she falls down the stairs and breaks her back or slips on the bathroom floor and breaks her ankle). If she is an independent contractor and carries her own insurance or if she works for an agency, this may not be an issue. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

You should call a California agent - the people that write their home insurance should know the answer to this question.

I'm not sure about California, but in some OTHER states, workers comp for part time domestic labor is voluntary, HOWEVER, if the person is injured during the course of working for you (dog bite, cut finger making dinner, etc), you are STILL required to pay their medical bills and lost wages.

Domestic labor is cheap to insure on workers comp - under $500 a year, which is about the cost of an emergency room visit and stitches . . . I would recommend they do it, if it's voluntary.

Answer 3

if your parents own their home, their homeowners insurance might cover it..check the paperwork or call your insurance company for information...also as you know if you hire someone for domestic work in your home you are supposed to take taxes out of their paycheck contact state tax board for more information.....