North Carolina workers’ comp and subcontractors: what to ask for

The three-employee line

The NC Industrial Commission says that in general, all businesses employing three or more employees on a regular basis are covered. Corporate officers count toward the total, though they may opt out individually. Sole proprietors, partners and LLC members aren’t automatically counted but may choose coverage.

Why you still ask the small subs

A tiny sub may be outside the act. But G.S. 97-19 puts the focus on whether you got a certificate before subletting. See our G.S. 97-19 guide. If a sub has none, write down why and ask your attorney how to handle it.

What to ask a North Carolina sub

1. How many people work for you, including officers?
2. Do you carry workers’ comp? Send the certificate.
3. If not, who will be on my job?

Sources: NC Industrial Commission: employer requirements · G.S. 97-19 (NC Industrial Commission). Laws and agency rules change. Check the current version.

Not legal or insurance advice. This is general information. Your contract, your state and your policy decide what applies to you. Ask your broker or attorney.

How to check a North Carolina sub’s coverage

The North Carolina Industrial Commission runs a public Insurance Coverage Search where you can look up an employer’s workers’ comp insurance information.

• Use the sub’s full legal name, or the policy number if you have it.
• Read the effective and cancellation dates, not just whether a policy shows.
• It is not proof of coverage. The Commission says the information may not reflect cancellations or reinstatements reported in the last 30 days.

So use the search as a quick check, and still collect a current certificate from the sub. See the G.S. 97-19 guide for why the certificate matters.

Source: NC Industrial Commission, ic.nc.gov. Checked 11 Oct 2026. Rules and tools change.