When contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, it’s easy to assume all policies are the same. But there’s a big difference between getting your coverage through a regular insurance company and relying on a state plan. If you’re a contractor in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut — the Tri-State area — understanding these differences is essential to protecting your business, your workers, and your bottom line.
Let’s break it down.
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10 Differences Between Regular Workers’ Compensation Policies and State Plans
1. Price Flexibility
Regular insurance companies often offer more flexible pricing structures. They can customize rates based on your company’s claims history, safety practices, payroll, and trade classifications. State plans typically have set rates based on filed rates, which can be a good option for businesses needing guaranteed access to coverage, but contractors looking for new workers’ compensation insurance may find better pricing options through private carriers.
2. Coverage Enhancements
Private insurers frequently offer optional coverage enhancements like stop-gap coverage, USL&H (for maritime-related work), or voluntary compensation for uninsured individuals. State plans generally focus on providing statutory workers’ compensation benefits, without optional endorsements.
3. Service & Claims Handling
Private insurance carriers often deliver fast, efficient claims services with dedicated adjusters and construction-focused programs. State plans provide reliable claims services as well, but some contractors may prefer the personalized attention and quicker turnaround times often associated with private carriers.
4. Loss Control Services
Most private insurance companies provide value-added safety services, such as job site inspections, safety manuals, and OSHA compliance guidance. State plans may offer online resources and safety materials, but contractors often appreciate the hands-on services offered by regular insurers — a big help when managing job site risks.
5. Audit Process
Both private insurers and state plans conduct annual premium audits to reconcile estimated and actual payrolls. Private insurers that specialize in construction accounts typically have underwriters and auditors well-versed in trade classifications and contractor operations. This can lead to smoother audits and clear explanations for adjustments.
6. Assigned Risk Pool Participation
In cases where a contractor has difficulty obtaining coverage in the voluntary market, state plans ensure that employers can still access workers’ compensation insurance. While these plans serve an important role in the market, when contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, many seek to transition into competitively priced, voluntary programs with private carriers offering broader options and additional services.
7. Premium Payment Options
Private insurers usually offer a variety of premium payment options, including monthly, quarterly, or pay-as-you-go. This flexibility helps contractors manage cash flow, especially on jobs with varying payroll. State plans typically have set deposit and payment schedules, which may not offer as much flexibility.
8. Certificates of Insurance Turnaround
Fast certificates are vital in construction. Regular insurance brokers and carriers often deliver certificates the same day, sometimes within an hour. While state plans also provide certificates, the process may vary depending on internal procedures, which is a factor to consider when contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance.
9. Underwriting Expertise
Private insurance companies typically employ underwriters experienced in handling construction risks and navigating complex job classifications. This can help contractors get accurate pricing and appropriate coverage. State plans provide essential coverage for businesses of all types, though their underwriting process tends to be more standardized.
10. Access to Safety Groups (New York Only)
In New York, eligible contractors have a valuable option through Safety Group plans. These are programs offered by certain carriers and associations that group together businesses in similar industries. Safety Groups often provide significant up-front premium discounts and the potential for back-end dividends based on the group’s overall claims performance. When contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, qualifying for a Safety Group can deliver outstanding value.
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How BGES Group Helps Tri-State Contractors Find the Right Coverage
When contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, working with a specialist like BGES Group makes all the difference.
For over 45 years, BGES Group has built a trusted reputation among New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut contractors. Unlike generalist agencies, BGES Group focuses heavily on the construction industry and understands its unique challenges, from regulatory requirements to trade-specific risks.
Their team helps contractors navigate the market, whether it’s moving out of the assigned risk pool or reviewing options within both state plans and private carriers. BGES Group also guides eligible New York contractors into Safety Group programs, where up-front discounts and potential dividends can mean real savings.
When contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, BGES Group offers:
• Access to top-rated insurance markets and state plan options
• Fast, same-day certificate turnaround
• Claims assistance and audit support
• Help with job site safety programs and loss control resources
• Annual policy reviews to ensure optimal coverage and pricing
Contact BGES Group Today
When contractors are looking for new workers’ compensation insurance, it’s important to work with experts who know your business and your market.
Contact BGES Group today and discover better options for your coverage:
📞 Gary Wallach: (914) 806-5853
Let them help you explore the available markets, potential Safety Group programs, and tailored coverage options designed to protect your workers and your business.