For over 113 years, Powell, Zero, Mundy has represented all types of workers in workers’ compensation cases. The Pennsylvania legislature enacted laws that created a workers’ compensation system for the benefit of workers who are injured on the job. If you have any questions about a potential claim for workers’ compensation benefits, the attorneys at Powell, Zero, Mundy have the necessary expertise and experience to handle any type of workers’ compensation case. Call today to consult with an experienced Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney.

For new or start-up businesses, or a current business being expanded to include employees, it is vital to be aware of all Pennsylvania state law legal requirements, especially those related to workers’ compensation insurance coverage. Workers’ compensation insurance coverage is mandatory for all employers who have one or more employees, part-time or full-time.

In return for providing insurance coverage that includes payment of medical expenses and wage-loss benefits to employees injured during the course of their employment, employers are insulated from civil lawsuits filed by injured workers.

Large, financially-healthy employers that have been operating for three or more years may request and receive Bureau of Workers’ Compensation approval to individually self-insure any future liability. Membership in certified group self-insurance funds may be available to employers whose business type is eligible.

In contrast, new, relatively smaller businesses that have difficulty obtaining workers’ compensation insurance may purchase coverage from the State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF). Because it is a state agency, SWIF is required to provide coverage to all businesses, especially those that have problems obtaining coverage from private sector insurance companies.

There are four ways a business can obtain workers’ compensation insurance coverage in Pennsylvania:

  • Purchase coverage through an insurance agent or broker.
  • Purchase coverage directly from a private sector insurance carrier.
  • Apply for self-insurance status.
  • Obtain insurance coverage from the State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF).