Who Needs Workers' Comp in Kansas?
Kansas requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance under the Kansas Workers Compensation Act (K.S.A. 44-501). Coverage is required for any employer with one or more employees, including part-time and seasonal workers. Corporate officers can elect exemption with proper documentation.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Kansas penalties include fines of up to $500 per day of non-compliance. Willful failure to insure is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by fines and imprisonment. The Kansas Department of Labor can issue stop-work orders. Uninsured employers are liable for all benefits owed plus a 10% penalty.
How Kansas Rates Work
Kansas uses NCCI class codes and operates as an open-rating state where carriers file their own rates with the Kansas Insurance Department. Kansas has moderate workers' comp costs and a stable regulatory environment. The state's diversified economy helps maintain balanced rates across industries.
Common Kansas Class Codes
| Code | Description | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 8810 | Clerical Office Employees | Low |
| 8742 | Outside Salespersons | Low |
| 9082 | Restaurant NOC — Full Service | Medium |
| 3507 | Construction Machinery Mfg | Medium |
| 5403 | Carpentry NOC | Medium-High |
| 5606 | Contractors — General | Medium-High |
| 5551 | Roofing — All Kinds | High |