We’ve Got You Covered. Get Your Quote Today.
Running a business keeps you busy, so we make getting workers’ compensation coverage simple. Get a quote from Montana State Fund and start protecting your employees and your business.
When you choose us, you get more than coverage. You gain a team of fellow Montanans on the other end of the line who are ready to take your call, safety experts across the state dedicated to helping you create a safer workplace, an in-house medical team and other support services that are just a phone call away.
Let’s Get Started
Getting workers’ compensation coverage from Montana State Fund is simple. You can either work with your agent or apply directly online.
Agent Represented
If you prefer to work with an agent, they can help guide you through the application process at no extra cost to you. Contact your agent or find one by using our Agent Locator.
Self-Service
Prefer to handle it yourself? You can apply for workers’ compensation coverage directly online by clicking here. If you have questions, we’re here to help. Call us at 406-495-5000 and speak to a fellow Montanan who will guide you through the process.
Application FAQs
Is workers' compensation insurance required for all Montana employers?
While every business is different, you generally must provide workers’ compensation insurance for these common types of workers:
- Montana residents: Anyone living in Montana who does most of their work here or is managed by a Montana-based employer.
- Out-of-state commuters: People who live outside Montana but consistently perform their primary job duties within the state.
- Out-of-state construction crews: If you are an out-of-state firm bringing workers into Montana for a construction project, those employees must be protected by Montana-specific coverage for the entire duration of the job.
Do I need workers’ compensation insurance if I work at different job sites?
In Montana, if your work takes you to various job sites rather than a fixed business location, you typically need to do one of two things:
- Get an exemption: Obtain an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC).
- Get covered: Elect to purchase workers' compensation insurance to protect yourself.
For more information on independent contractor requirements, refer to the DLI’s website or call 406-444-9029.
My Montana business also operates outside Montana. Is coverage included?
Yes, you can work with us for all your workers’ compensation needs. This type of policy is called Other States’ Coverage or OSC, and applying is easy. All you need to do is list each business location you need coverage for, including the out-of-state locations, in the "Business Locations" section on your application.
While other considerations may apply, below are the qualifications for an OSC policy with Montana State Fund:
- Montana insurance: Your Montana business operations must be insured with Montana State Fund.
- Montana location: The business must have a physical location in Montana.
- Montana payroll: Your business must report and pay wages to employees working in Montana.
Call 406-495-5000 or email us at stfpolicy@mt.gov if you have questions on Other States Coverage or if you would like assistance completing your application.
It’s up to you! Whether you prefer to handle things yourself or want a helping hand, we have two easy ways for you to get started:
- Self-service: Our application is straightforward and user-friendly. Most customers can complete the entire process in about 15 minutes. It’s the fastest way to get your quote or policy application submitted.
- Work with an agent: One of our agent partners can walk you through the application and explain your coverage options in detail. The best part? There’s no extra cost to you for working with an agent.
Find a local pro: Use our Agent Locator to find a partner near you.
In Montana, whether an owner or officer is covered depends on how the business is structured and their specific role.
Who is automatically covered?
Generally, corporate officers and LLC managers who receive pay for performing regular duties are automatically covered by the policy.
Who is typically exempt (not required to have coverage)?
You generally do not need to provide coverage for:
- Sole proprietors and partners in a partnership
- Members of a member-managed LLC
- Officers or managers who meet any of the following:
- They do not perform regular work duties & receive no pay.
- They primarily perform household duties.
- They own 10% or more of the company’s stock or LLC membership.
- They (along with related family members who are also officers/managers) own 10% or more of the company.
Important note: Coverage is available for officers or managers who perform regular duties and receive pay, helping ensure that eligible team members are fully protected.
Still unsure? Because Montana law defines specific family relationships for the "10% ownership" rule, we recommend reaching out to ensure you're getting the right coverage.
Talk to a specialist: Call us at 406-495-5000, email stfpolicy@mt.gov or view the full list of exemptions on the Montana Department of Labor & Industry website.
How do I get a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
Getting proof of coverage is easy! All we need from you is the name and address of the person or business requesting the certificate.
You can request your COI through any of these three easy channels:
- During your application: Simply list the required names and addresses on an additional page and submit it along with your application.
- By email: Send the details to stfpolicy@mt.gov.
- By phone: Call our team at 406-495-5000 and we’ll help you get it processed.
Call 406-495-5000 or email us at stfpolicy@mt.gov if you have questions on Other States Coverage or if you would like assistance completing your application.
While our standard application covers most Montana businesses, you can customize your policy to better protect your team or lower your costs.
Let’s connect about your customization options so we can personalize your coverage!
Call us: 406-444-9029
Email us: stfpolicy@mt.gov
Here are a few examples of ways to save and customize to close any gaps in your coverage and potentially save you money on your workers’ compensation insurance.
Medical deductible
To lower your workers' compensation premium, you can opt for a medical deductible endorsement.
Under this plan, you pay the medical costs for a claim up to your chosen amount, and we handle the rest. Deductible options include:
$500 | $1,000 | $1,500 | $2,000 | $2,500
Note: To quality for this plan, your annual premium must be higher than your chosen deductible level.
Groups and associations
Are you a member of a local trade group? You may be eligible for specialized programs. Contact your association or our specialists to learn more.
Elective coverages
Your business might need extra protection if your operations involve specific types of work or staff. Let us know if you have these or other special situations:
Staffing Needs
- Dependent family members or spouses
- Seasonal or contract employees
- Employees under 16 or over 60
- Real estate, insurance, or securities sales
- Licensed barbers or cosmetologists
- Musicians under written contract
- Amateur athletic officials
Special Operations
- Aircraft operated for business
- Work performed underground or above 15 feet
- Using subcontractors
- Group transportation for employees
- Labor interchange with other businesses
- Delivery services or catering
- Daycare or preschool
