Worker Comp Benefits and Independent Contractors
Are Independent Contractors Eligible for Workers Comp Benefits in Cleveland, OH?
The eligibility of self-employed contractors for workers’ compensation benefits in Cleveland, Ohio, is not straightforward and depends on a host of factors. It is mandatory for Ohio businesses to carry workers compensation coverage for their employees. However, the same workers comp insurance may not be available to an independent contractor. Based on the behavioral control of the employer, you may still be covered under their workers’ compensation policy. So if you have suffered a work related injury, call me day or night. We’ll discuss how much control the business has/had over your actions, and whether you should be entitled to workers compensation coverage.
Ohio’s workers’ compensation laws have criteria to determine whether a worker is a self employed person or employee. If the employer controls the method and means of doing the work, the worker is not considered an independent contractor. Being eligible for the business’ workers compensation insurance depends on this relationship.
As a freelance worker, you may be misclassified as an independent contractor and should be classified as an employee. If so, you may be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. On the other hand, as an independent worker who is legitimately self-employed, you may not be entitled to receive workers compensation benefits.
It is important to note that the answer to whether a freelance worker is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits is not always a simple yes or no. If your employers workers’ comp insurance will not cover your medical expenses or compensate you for lost wages, call me today. I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Different Worker Classification for an Independent Contractor and Workers Compensation Coverage
The term “independent contractor” is a broad category that can include various professions and job titles. A person who offers their services to the general public in an independent trade, business, or profession is considered an independent contractor. Some freelance workers have their own workers compensation insurance, but even if you do not, your medical bills from work related injuries may be covered by your current employer.
In terms of job titles, independent contractors may go by different names depending on the industry they work in. For example, in the construction industry, an independent contractor may be called a mason, a carpenter, or an electrician. These professions are very technically skilled, while also being physically demanding. The risk of injury doing these jobs is increased, and your knowledge of what workers’ compensation insurance is available is important.
An independent contractor may also be referred to by the title of their contract or agreement with the business they are working for. For instance, they may be called a vendor, consultant, or freelancer. In the contract, it specifies the working conditions and terms of the relationship between the business and the contractor.
In general, the best jobs for independent contractors are those that require specialized skills and can be performed on a project-by-project basis. How your contract is written and the type of working relationship you have had with the employer will determine if you can qualify for their workers compensation insurance. If you have been injured on the job, call me today, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Different Fields for Independent Contractors
Independent contractors can work in a wide range of fields and industries. They may choose to work independently to have more flexibility in their work schedules, to be their own boss, or to earn more money. Here are some popular fields for independent contractors:
Skilled Trades
Examples include masons, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. These professionals specialize in a particular trade and often work on projects for clients.
Delivery Services
Drivers for companies like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats as delivery drivers. They may also work as personal shoppers, delivering groceries and other goods to clients.
Creative Services
This includes photographers, graphic designers, web designers, and writers. These professionals often work on a freelance basis, taking on projects for clients.
Administrative Services
Virtual assistants, bookkeepers, and transcriptionists are all examples of administrative services that independent contractors can provide to businesses and individuals.
Real Estate
Realtors or property managers, who help clients buy, sell, or rent properties are often self-employed.
Health and Wellness
Life coaches, personal trainers, and yoga instructors are just a few examples of professionals who can work as independent contractors in the health and wellness industry.
Home Services
Freelance contractors can work as cleaners, landscapers, and handymen, providing home services to clients.
Education and Tutoring
Independent contractors can work as tutors or online teachers, providing educational services to students.
E-commerce
Amazon resellers and flippers are examples of independent contractors who work in e-commerce, buying and selling products for profit.
These are just a few examples of the many fields in which an independent contractor can work. The flexibility and autonomy offered by independent contracting appeal to professionals across a wide range of industries. If you do not carry your own workers’ compensation insurance, and were injured on the job, you need to consult an Ohio workers compensation attorney. With more than 40 years of experience, I have fought for wage loss benefits that every injured employee deserves. Call me today for a free consultation!
Questions Freelance Employees should ask about safety precautions before beginning a new job:
Professional freelancers should take safety precautions very seriously before starting any new job. Understanding the job role and whether or not your insurance company will provide workers compensation coverage is extremely important. Here are some questions I recommend asking before beginning a new job to ensure you are taking the necessary safety precautions:
Does the company have the necessary licenses and qualifications to perform the job? Confirming that a company or contractor is qualified for the job can be complex, but it is essential to ensure that they have the necessary expertise and skills.
Are there any hazards or risks associated with the job, and if so, what steps will be taken to mitigate them? Contractors should be aware of any potential hazards, such as electrical or chemical hazards, and ask about the measures that will be taken to ensure their safety.
Will personal protective equipment (PPE) be provided, and if so, what type? Depending on the job, PPE may be necessary, such as hard hats, gloves, or respirators. As a contractor, you should ask about the type of PPE that will be provided and ensure that it is appropriate for the job.
Are there any specific safety protocols that must be followed on the job site? Contractors should be aware of any safety protocols or regulations that must be followed, such as wearing high-visibility clothing or staying within certain boundaries on the job site.
Where are the utility controls located, and are there any appliances or circuits that cannot be turned off? It is essential to know the location of utility controls such as water, gas, and electrical panels, and to be aware of any appliances or circuits that cannot be turned off.
By asking these questions, independent contractors can ensure that they are taking the necessary safety precautions before starting a new job.
Contact me, Tim Misny, for answers to your workers’ compensation questions!
You have the right to be safe and healthy. If you’re a contractor, you are at higher risk of injury and death. If you are not covered under the employer’s workers compensation insurance policy, you can be left injured and financially burdened.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, you’ll need a highly experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who can help you get the benefits to which you are entitled. I’ll meet you anytime and any place to discuss your case. Just remember, I have more than 40 years of workers’ compensation expertise, and the financial resources to take on the largest corporations. Call me today at 800-556-4769 and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
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