Workers' Compensation by state

Workers' compensation requirements in New Jersey

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Direct answer

Does New Jersey require workers' compensation insurance?

Yes. New Jersey requires workers' compensation coverage once a business has one or more employees, under the New Jersey Workers' Compensation Law. New Jersey requires all employers not covered by federal programs to carry workers' compensation coverage or approved self-insurance for their employees.

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

How the mandate works

New Jersey requires all employers not covered by federal programs to carry workers' compensation coverage or approved self-insurance for their employees. The requirement applies to businesses with one or more employees, including part-time workers.

Coverage trigger: One or more employees
If you go without coverage: Willful failure to carry required coverage can be a crime, with daily fines and personal liability for corporate officers.

Notable exemptions

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

Sole proprietors and partners with no employees
Certain workers covered exclusively by federal compensation programs
Limited categories of casual employment

Statutes and sources

New Jersey Workers' Compensation Law

N.J. Stat. Ann. sect. 34:15-1 et seq.

Regulator: New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation . Last verified 2026-07-29 from the official source .

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