Workers comp rates and rules in Missouri
Missouri has 0 workers comp class codes with filed rates, a maximum weekly benefit of $1,100 (66.67% of average weekly wage), and a statute of limitations of 2 years. Verified 2026-05-08.
Class code rate comparison
The top 0 workers comp class codes filed in Missouri, sorted from cheapest to most expensive per $100 of payroll. Cross-state percentile shows where each code sits versus the same code in other states.
| State | Occupation | Code | Rate per $100 | vs peers | Source |
|---|
Bottom quartile (cheap) Mid Top quartile (expensive) This state
Missouri coverage rules & benefits
Coverage threshold
Mandatory for employers with five or more employees, or one or more employees in the construction industry.
Max weekly benefit
$1,100 (66.67% of average weekly wage), effective 2024.
TTD weeks
400 weeks of temporary total disability benefits.
PPD weeks
400 weeks of permanent partial disability (whole-body schedule).
Death benefit
Up to $445,000 in fatal-claim death benefits to dependents.
Statute of limitations
2 years from injury date to file the claim.
1099 contractor treatment
Individuals classified as independent contractors (1099) under common law tests are generally not considered employees for workers' compensation purposes.
Owner exclusion
Allowed. Sole proprietor self-coverage: optional. LLC member self-coverage: optional.
State fund
Second Injury Fund is the state-administered carrier.
Estimate your premium in Missouri
Pre-filled to Missouri. Pick your industry and payroll to see a real premium range from filed rates.
Estimate your workers comp premium
Pick your industry, state, and annual payroll. Range comes from real rate filings.
Filing & compliance in Missouri
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Step 1, Confirm coverage threshold
Mandatory for employers with five or more employees, or one or more employees in the construction industry.
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Step 2, Determine class code
Your premium uses the NCCI class code that best matches your operation. The wrong class code can cost 4-10x more or get reclassified at audit.
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Step 3, Get a quote (or use the state fund)
Second Injury Fund is one option; private carriers like Travelers, Hartford, and Liberty Mutual also write coverage in Missouri. Schedule credits up to 25% are typical for low-loss accounts.
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Step 4, Track payroll & subcontractors
General contractors are typically liable for injuries to employees of uninsured subcontractors if the subcontractor is performing work that is part of the general contractor's usual business. Keep certificates of insurance for every sub.
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Step 5, Annual audit
Carriers audit payroll within 90 days of policy expiration. Have payroll segregated by class code, job descriptions on file, and overtime properly excluded from rated payroll.
Missouri workers comp FAQs
Who has to carry workers compensation insurance in Missouri?
Mandatory for employers with five or more employees, or one or more employees in the construction industry.
What is the maximum weekly workers comp benefit in Missouri?
The current maximum weekly benefit in Missouri is $1,100 (effective 2024). Benefits are typically 66.67% of the average weekly wage, capped at the state maximum.
How long do I have to file a workers comp claim in Missouri?
The statute of limitations for filing a workers compensation claim in Missouri is 2 years from the date of injury. Notice to the employer is typically required within 30 days.
Are 1099 contractors covered by workers comp in Missouri?
Individuals classified as independent contractors (1099) under common law tests are generally not considered employees for workers' compensation purposes.
Can business owners exclude themselves from workers comp coverage in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri allows business owners (sole proprietors, partners, LLC members, corporate officers) to exclude themselves from coverage by filing the appropriate election form. Sole-proprietor self-coverage is not required; LLC member self-coverage is not required.
What is the penalty for not carrying workers comp in Missouri?
Penalties include fines up to $50,000, stop-work orders, and potential criminal charges. Employers can also be sued directly by injured employees.
When does my workers comp carrier audit my payroll in Missouri?
Missouri typically requires a payroll audit within 90 days of policy expiration. Final premium is reconciled to actual payroll, and class code allocation can shift based on the audit findings. Keep payroll segregated by class code and have job-duty documentation ready.
Am I liable for subcontractors' workers comp in Missouri?
General contractors are typically liable for injuries to employees of uninsured subcontractors if the subcontractor is performing work that is part of the general contractor's usual business.