Hiring Summer Workers? Know These Key Insurance Musts

The warmer months often bring a surge in temporary employment, particularly for labor-intensive fields. For instance, consider a small landscaping business that expands its team to manage a slew of summer contracts. While additional hands on deck are great for business, they're accompanied by increased responsibilities, especially when it comes to insurance coverage. This post will guide you through the essential insurance policies to consider.

Workers’ Compensation

One critical coverage is workers’ compensation. Almost every state, except Texas, requires companies to purchase this insurance, which includes seasonal employees. Without it, your business could face expensive claims and legal risks resulting from workplace injuries.

Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)

When hiring, onboarding, and eventually terminating seasonal employees, you’re exposed to risks. Employment Practices Liability can safeguard your business against claims involving wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage disputes. Having the right EPLI coverage can be a vital protection layer.

General Liability

Hiring less experienced workers inevitably ups the ante on liability risks. It’s crucial to review and possibly update your general liability policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage against potential mishaps. This will help protect your business from the financial burden of unforeseen events.

Health Insurance

Don’t overlook your health insurance obligations. Under the Affordable Care Act, businesses with 50 or more full-time employees might be required to offer health coverage — an obligation that can extend to seasonal workers as well if they meet the full-time requirement metrics.

While hiring seasonal help can significantly boost productivity, not having the right insurance coverages in place could leave your business open to unnecessary risks. It's wise to consult with your insurance agent to assess your needs and update policies accordingly.