Overview
Political subdivisions must also provide workers’ compensation coverage to their employees, and they may elect to self-insure those benefits.
Application Process
Political subdivisions that elect to self-insure their workers’ compensation must file:
- Notice of Election by a Political Subdivision or Fire District to Secure Compensation as a Self-Insurer (Form SI-26); together with
- A certified copy of a resolution from its governing body, which states that they have elected to provide workers’ compensation benefits through self-insurance.
Political subdivisions that elect to self-insure their Workers’ Compensation are exempt from posting security deposits. However, they must report the name of their licensed third-party administrator if claims are not self-administered.
For more information about the self-insurance application process please contact the Office of Self-Insurance at SelfInsurance@wcb.ny.gov.
Annual Reporting Requirements
Self-insured political subdivisions are not required to submit annual reports.
Assessments
Chapter 57 of the Laws of 2013 authorized the Workers' Compensation Board (Board) to streamline the manner in which it collects its administrative and special fund assessments and implement a process that will be consistent among the various categories of payers and based upon active coverage. The Board expects the assessment process will offer all payers a more equitable, predictable and efficient manner to manage their share of Board assessment expenses.
Pursuant to WCL §151, the Chair shall annually establish an assessment rate to be effective January 1 of the subsequent calendar year. In accordance with Title 12 NYCRR Part 318 that governs the assessment process, the assessment rate will be determined by dividing the total estimated annual expenses by a base of total estimated statewide premium. All payers will be required to apply the assessment rate to their premium or premium equivalent and submit payment quarterly.
Information is available on the rules and regulations that govern the assessment process, prescribed forms, frequently asked questions, as well as other information related to assessments.
Questions may be sent to: WCBFinanceOffice@wcb.ny.gov
Terminating Self-Insurance
A political subdivision who has arranged for the payment of compensation by alternate methods (NYSIF or insurance carrier coverage), may terminate their status as a self-insurer at any time by notifying the Office of Self-Insurance.