Do Part-Time Employees Need Workers’ Comp?
Often, yes; part-time status alone does not exempt an employee, though the applicable state’s definition and exceptions control.
State rules determine who counts as an employee and whether a minimum headcount or other threshold applies. New York’s Workers’ Compensation Board specifically includes part-time workers in its examples of employees who may need coverage. California’s injured-worker guidance also says temporary or part-time workers may qualify for benefits. These are state examples, not a uniform nationwide test.
Ask the workers’ compensation agency in each work state how it treats part-time, seasonal, and occasional staff. Give the insurer complete payroll and job-duty information, including part-time workers, and check the policy’s classifications and any minimum premium or audit terms. A low number of weekly hours does not by itself establish an exemption. Ask whether the state counts each employee or applies another threshold, and keep hours and wages available for premium audits.
Related Coverage
Sources
- Small Business Insurance. National Association of Insurance Commissioners; Typically covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and lost wages; check with your state insurance department; ask these questions / who qualifies as a covered employee (contractors, part-time staff, interns); payroll and type-of-work rating factors. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- State Workers’ Compensation Officials. U.S. Department of Labor; State and territory workers’ compensation contacts. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- What business owners must know. New York State Workers’ Compensation Board; Who needs insurance, independent contractors, owners and exemptions. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- I was injured at work. California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Workers’ Compensation; Work-related injury or illness benefits, reporting and part-time workers. Accessed 2026-09-25.
