Who Needs Workers' Comp in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma requires all employers with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance. Oklahoma underwent significant reform in 2013 with the Administrative Workers' Compensation Act, which moved the system from a court-based to an administrative model. This reform streamlined the claims process and has generally led to more predictable costs for employers.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Oklahoma penalties include fines up to $1,000 per day of non-compliance, injunctions to cease business operations, and personal liability for all injury costs. Willful failure to carry coverage is a misdemeanor punishable by fines and imprisonment. The Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Commission enforces compliance.
How Oklahoma Rates Work
Oklahoma uses NCCI class codes and operates as a competitive rating state. The 2013 reforms have generally led to more stable and competitive rates. CompSource Mutual (formerly the state fund) is a major carrier option alongside private insurers. Oklahoma's oil and gas economy creates demand for specialized coverage in higher-risk classifications.
Common Oklahoma Class Codes
| Code | Description | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 8810 | Clerical Office Employees | Low |
| 8742 | Outside Salespersons | Low |
| 1320 | Oil or Gas Lease Operator | Medium |
| 9101 | Restaurant NOC | Medium |
| 5403 | Carpentry NOC | Medium-High |
| 7219 | Trucking NOC | Medium-High |
| 5551 | Roofing — All Kinds | High |