Short answer: Often yes, at least for workers' comp. Many states require a policy that names their state, often in Item 3A of the workers' comp information page, before your employees work there. General liability and commercial auto usually cover you nationwide, but confirm the territory, add any required additional insureds, and check that state's contractor licensing and bond rules.
Workers' comp: the item that trips people up
A workers' comp policy's information page lists states in Item 3A (states where the policy fully applies) and Item 3C (other states coverage, which extends coverage to listed states if you start working there). States treat these differently:
- New York generally requires out-of-state employers with employees working in New York to have New York in Item 3A, with Item 3C accepted only in limited cases. See New York workers' comp.
- Florida requires a construction employer with even one employee working in Florida to carry a Florida policy from a Florida-licensed insurer, with Florida in Item 3A. See Florida workers' comp.
- Massachusetts accepts Item 3A, or Item 3C plus an insurer-filed Form 154. See Massachusetts workers' comp.
- Ohio, Washington, North Dakota and Wyoming are monopolistic. Coverage comes from the state fund, and a private policy's 3C won't satisfy those laws.
Use our workers' comp requirements by state table, then confirm with your insurer before the first day on site.
General liability
Most CGL policies cover the United States, its territories and Canada. Check:
- [ ] Any designated-location or territory limitations
- [ ] Whether the out-of-state project requires per-project aggregates, additional insured wording or waivers of subrogation
- [ ] Any residential or height exclusions that matter for the new job
Commercial auto
Most business auto policies cover vehicles anywhere in the U.S. Tell your insurer if you're garaging vehicles or basing crews in another state for an extended time, since that can change rating and requirements.
Licensing, bonds and registration
Many states and cities require contractor licensing, bonds or registration to work there, and some require proof of insurance as part of licensing. Insurance can't fix a licensing gap, so check the state's licensing board.
Certificates
Get updated certificates showing the right state coverage and endorsements. A certificate is informational only and doesn't change the policy. See what a certificate of insurance is.
Bottom line
Call your agent before you bid out-of-state work. The workers' comp state listing is the most common gap.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea contractor insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Does my workers' comp cover employees in another state?
It depends on the states listed in Items 3A and 3C and on that state's rules; some require the state in 3A.
Does Item 3C work in monopolistic states?
No. Ohio, Washington, North Dakota and Wyoming require state-fund coverage.
Does general liability cover jobs in other states?
Most CGL policies cover the U.S., its territories and Canada, but check for location or territory limitations.
Do I need a contractor license in the other state?
Many states and cities require licensing, bonds or registration; check that state's licensing board.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.