In the state of Missouri you are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance if you have five or more employees, unless you are in the construction industry, then you must carry workers’ compensation insurance if you have one or more employees. Employers that don’t have the required number of employees or who have employees in the exempt categories may “elect” to come under the law and carry workers’ compensation insurance. Exempt employers that decide not to purchase workers compensation insurance or to self-insured remain exposed to civil lawsuits brought by employees who are injured during work. Sole proprietors and partners are not themselves covered unless they elect to be covered; close family member-employees and members of a limited liability company are presumed to be covered unless they opt out. See exemptions.
