All states / Illinois
Illinois Workers' Compensation Requirements
Required from your 1st employee
At a glance
1st
employee threshold (general)
—
construction threshold (same as general)
Private market
buy from any carrier
IL Workers' Compensation Commission
official source (verified 2026-09-08)
The details
One employee (even part-time) triggers coverage. Limited exceptions.
FAQ
Do I need workers' compensation in Illinois?
Yes — Illinois requires coverage as soon as you hire your first employee (full-time or part-time).
What about construction businesses in Illinois?
Construction businesses follow the same 1 threshold. See details below for industry nuances.
What if I don't carry required coverage in Illinois?
Penalties vary by state and can include per-employee per-day fines, stop-work orders, and personal liability for injury claims. Check the official source below for Illinois's current enforcement posture.
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Official source: IL Workers' Compensation Commission · Verified 2026-09-08 (official) · Compare all states · Construction rules · Farm rules