Workers Compensation for Solo Pet Care Business Owners
Most solo pet care pros — like dog walkers, groomers, and pet sitters – aren’t required to carry workers compensation insurance. Plus, many states exclude business owners from being able to buy a workers comp policy if they have no employees.
We know it can be confusing when a client asks about workers comp (especially when it’s just you doing all the work). We’ll guide you through what you need to know about workers comp as a solo pet care provider and help you explore other essential coverages to protect your pet care business.
Check Your State’s Workers Compensation Rules for Sole Proprietors
Workers compensation laws vary by state. It’s always a good idea to double-check your state’s guidelines to see if you’re required to have coverage (or if you’re even eligible for it as a sole proprietor).
You can also find out how to request an exemption (waiver) if you’re not required to have workers comp, but need proof for a client or contract. Below is a list of state resources to help you check the rules where you live:
More Ways to Protect Your Pet Care Business
Even without employees, your pet care business still faces everyday risks. That’s why PCI specializes in insurance tailored to the pet care industry, helping solo professionals protect their business, pets, and livelihood. Here are some key coverages we offer:
- General Liability: Essential coverage for accidents or injuries to people or damage to property that occur as a result of your business activities (e.g., a client trips over your leash or a dog chews a visitor’s shoes)
- Pet Protection (Animal Bailee): Built to cover you if a client’s pet is injured, lost, or goes missing while under your care
- Broadened Property Damage: Extends liability coverage if a pet in your care accidentally damages someone else’s property (e.g., a dog knocks over a client’s expensive vase)
- Commercial Auto: Designed to protect you if you use a vehicle for work (such as pet transport or mobile grooming), covering auto accidents or damage during business use
- Equipment and Inventory Coverage (Inland Marine): Insures your business gear and supplies (grooming tools, kennels, leashes, etc.) against theft, loss, or damage, so your tools of the trade remain protected
- Lost Key Liability: Made to cover the cost of replacing locks or keys if you ever lose a client’s keys (a simple mishap that could otherwise be an expensive mistake)
- Vet Bill Reimbursement: Can pay for vet bills if a pet in your care gets hurt, regardless of fault — it can cover medical expenses for the animal, even if you weren’t negligent
Our goal is to give you confidence that while you’re caring for pets, we’re caring for your business. Our coverage is designed to be fast, affordable, and easy to obtain for sole proprietors.
FAQs About Workers Compensation for Sole Proprietors
Do I need workers comp if I have no employees in my pet care business?
Short answer: usually no. Most states don’t require workers comp for solo owners, and some don’t even allow it without W‑2 employees. Pet care gigs like walking, sitting, training, or grooming are typically exempt. There are always state-specific rules, so check your state’s regulations to be sure.
What if a client asks for a workers comp certificate, but I’m solo?
Explain that you’re a sole proprietor with no employees and often not eligible (or required) to carry workers comp. Ask if they’ll accept a state workers comp exemption/waiver plus your general liability Certificate of Insurance (COI).
Many requesters simply want proof you’re insured and compliant. Keep it friendly and clear: “I’m exempt from workers comp, but I carry liability coverage.” That usually answers the underlying concern and keeps the job on track.
What is a workers comp waiver or exemption for sole proprietors?
A workers comp exemption (waiver) is your state’s official note saying you’re not required to carry workers comp as a solo owner. It’s helpful when someone asks for a workers comp certificate you can’t provide.
You apply through your state’s workers comp office, confirm you have no employees, and receive documentation you can share with clients or partners. Think of it as a hall pass: you’re following the rules, they just don’t apply to you yet.
What should I do when I hire my first employee?
In many states, workers comp becomes mandatory as soon as you add W‑2 staff — even one part‑time employee. Start by checking your state’s threshold and timing, then secure coverage before your new hire’s first day.
Check out our Workers Comp page to learn more.
How much does workers comp cost for a sole proprietor (for those who can get coverage)?
If you have no employees, you may not be able to buy workers comp for yourself in many states. Where owners can elect coverage, pricing hinges on your state, class code (pet services), and any required minimum payroll.
Those rules create a minimum premium even for low payroll. Actual numbers vary, so the fastest path is to contact your state fund or a workers comp carrier for a quote.
Will a general liability COI satisfy a request for a workers comp certificate?
Not by itself. Workers comp and general liability are different policies for different risks. If someone specifically wants a workers comp COI and you don’t have employees, ask whether a state exemption/waiver plus your general liability COI meets their requirements.
What other insurance should a solo pet care provider have?
If you only pick one coverage, start with general liability for third‑party injuries and property damage. Then, add pet‑specific coverages that fit your business needs, like
- Broadened Property Damage for accidental property mishaps
- Equipment and Inventory (Inland Marine) for stolen or damaged gear
- Lost Key Liability
Commercial Auto if you drive for work.