Workers' compensation insurance for California and Illinois employers
Coverage for medical care, lost wages and rehabilitation when an employee is hurt on the job. We place policies for home health and home care agencies, clinics, offices and other small businesses, and we can price most of them in minutes.
What workers' comp pays for
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses
- A portion of lost wages while an employee recovers
- Rehabilitation and return-to-work services
- Death benefits for dependents after a fatal workplace injury
- Employer's liability coverage if an employee sues over a workplace injury
Who has to carry it
California Labor Code section 3700 requires every employer with employees to carry workers' compensation. Illinois requires it as soon as you have one employee, even part-time. In Illinois, an employer that knowingly goes without coverage can be fined up to $500 per day with a $10,000 minimum. Owners in both states may be able to exclude themselves, but never their employees.
How your premium is calculated
Premiums are based on payroll for each job classification: payroll divided by 100, multiplied by the rate for that class code, then adjusted by your experience modification and the insurer's credits. In California, the approved advisory rates for policies starting on or after September 1, 2026 average $1.65 per $100 of payroll. Clerical staff (class 8810) cost far less than field employees, so getting classifications right is the biggest lever on cost.
Why agencies work with us
- Home care specialists: California class 8827 and NCCI class 8835 are everyday work for us
- Access to multiple carriers, so we can compare pricing instead of quoting one company
- Pay-as-you-go billing options that avoid large deposits and audit surprises
- Help preparing for annual premium audits so your final bill matches your estimate
Workers' comp by state
Frequently asked questions
Is workers' comp required if I only have one employee?
Yes. California requires coverage for every employer with employees, and Illinois requires it with even one part-time employee.
How much does workers' comp cost?
It depends on payroll and job type. Using California's 2026 advisory rates, $50,000 of clerical payroll is about $107 in pure premium, while the same payroll for in-home caregivers (class 8827) is about $1,397, before insurer expenses and fees. Our estimator gives you a range for your business in about two minutes.
What is the class code for home health care?
California uses classification 8827 for home care services and nursing care in private residences. Illinois and other NCCI states usually use 8835. Office-only staff are typically 8810.
Why did my premium change after the audit?
The audit compares estimated payroll with actual payroll by class code. Higher payroll, staff reported in the wrong class, or uninsured subcontractors added to your policy are the most common reasons for an additional bill.
Related articles
- How Much Is Workers' Comp Insurance? 2026 Costs in California and IllinoisBusiness Insurance
- Workers' Comp in Illinois: 2026 Requirements for EmployersBusiness Insurance
- Primer: Workers’ Comp Insurance in CaliforniaBusiness Insurance
- 6 Steps to Prepare for Workers’ Compensation AuditsBusiness Insurance
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