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North Carolina Workers' Compensation Requirements
At a glance
The details
Three or more employees on a regular basis (NC GS 97-2, IC official). Corporate officers count toward threshold but may exclude themselves. Principal/intermediate contractors and subcontractors: 3+ triggers. One exception: employment involving use/procurement of... (see statute for details).
FAQ
Do I need workers' compensation in North Carolina?
Yes — once you regularly employ 3 or more employees (full or part-time), North Carolina requires workers' compensation coverage.
What about construction businesses in North Carolina?
Construction businesses follow the same 3 threshold. See details below for industry nuances.
What if I don't carry required coverage in North Carolina?
Penalties vary by state and can include per-employee per-day fines, stop-work orders, and personal liability for injury claims. Check the official source below for North Carolina's current enforcement posture.
Official source: NC Industrial Commission · Verified 2026-09-11 (official) · Compare all states · Construction rules · Farm rules