This is one of the most common and most misunderstood questions among business owners in Missouri and Arkansas. The short answer is: it depends — on your role in the company, your business structure, and how your workers’ compensation policy is written.
Many owners assume they’re automatically covered, only to discover after an injury that they were excluded.
Are Business Owners Automatically Covered by Workers’ Comp?
In both Missouri and Arkansas, business owners are not always automatically included under workers’ compensation policies.
Coverage depends on how your business is structured:
- Sole proprietors and partners are typically excluded by default unless they elect coverage
- LLC members may be included or excluded depending on the policy and state rules
- Corporate officers can often choose to be included or excluded
- Policies may differ based on whether the owner performs manual or supervisory work
Because of these variables, owner coverage must be reviewed and confirmed, not assumed.
When Should a Business Owner Elect Workers’ Comp Coverage?
If you are actively working in the business, electing workers’ compensation coverage for yourself can be critical. This is especially true for owners involved in higher-risk industries such as:
- Construction and contracting
- Tree trimming and landscaping
- Manufacturing
- Trades and skilled labor
- Warehouse or delivery operations
Workplace injuries can happen to owners just as easily as employees — and medical bills, lost income, and recovery costs can add up quickly.
What Happens If You’re Injured Without Coverage?
If you’re excluded from your workers’ compensation policy and get injured on the job, you may be responsible for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income during recovery
- Rehabilitation or therapy costs
Many business owners don’t realize they opted out until after an injury occurs, when it’s too late to change coverage.
Why Owner Coverage Reviews Are So Important
Owner elections can change over time — especially when:
- A policy renews
- Employees are added or removed
- Business operations expand
- Job duties shift from office-only to hands-on work
That’s why reviewing owner workers’ compensation coverage should be a routine part of managing your business risk.
Protect Yourself and Your Business
For business owners across Missouri and Arkansas, a workers’ compensation review with an independent insurance agency can help confirm:
- Whether you’re currently covered
- If an owner election is in place
- Whether coverage limits match your risk
- If changes are needed to protect both you and your business
If you own the business and work in it, don’t assume you’re covered. A quick review today can prevent costly surprises tomorrow.