Workers' Compensation by state

Workers' compensation requirements in New Hampshire

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Direct answer

Does New Hampshire require workers' compensation insurance?

Yes. New Hampshire requires workers' compensation coverage once a business has one or more employees, under the New Hampshire Workers' Compensation Law. New Hampshire requires all employers with one or more employees, full-time or part-time, to carry workers' compensation coverage.

Reviewed by Cornerstone Staff28 years of financial services state licensing experienceLast verified July 29, 2026

How the mandate works

New Hampshire requires all employers with one or more employees, full-time or part-time, to carry workers' compensation coverage. Coverage is provided through private insurers or an approved self-insurance program.

Coverage trigger: One or more employees
If you go without coverage: Employers without required coverage can face substantial daily civil penalties and stop-work orders until coverage is secured.

Notable exemptions

Exemptions are narrow and fact-specific; confirm your situation with the regulator or an agent before relying on one.

Sole proprietors, partners, and certain LLC members who may elect out
Some railroad employees covered by federal law
Limited categories of casual or domestic workers

Statutes and sources

New Hampshire Workers' Compensation Law

N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. sect. 281-A:1 et seq.

Regulator: New Hampshire Department of Labor, Workers' Compensation Division . Last verified 2026-07-29 from the official source .

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