Workers Comp Insurance for Barbershops in Pennsylvania: Requirements and Average Costs

Pennsylvania requires all employers to carry workers comp insurance from the first employee. Pennsylvania barbershops with any employees on payroll must carry workers comp coverage. Pennsylvania workers comp rates are set by the Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau (PCRB). Pennsylvania workers comp costs are above the national average due to the state's litigation environment and medical cost structure.

Quick Answer

Estimated workers comp premiums for Pennsylvania barbershops:

Barbershop Type	Estimated Annual Workers Comp Premium
Solo barber (no employees)	Not required
Small barbershop (1 to 3 employees)	$1,400 to $3,500 per year
Mid-size Philadelphia barbershop (4 to 8 employees)	$3,200 to $8,000 per year

Pennsylvania barbershop workers comp premiums are above the national average. Philadelphia barbershops pay more than rural Pennsylvania barbershops.

What Workers Comp Covers for Pennsylvania Barbershops

Medical Benefits

Covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and rehabilitation costs for employees injured on the job.

Lost Wage Benefits

Covers a portion of wages for employees unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness.

Permanent Disability Benefits

Covers employees with permanent partial or total disability resulting from a work-related injury.

Death Benefits

Covers funeral expenses and survivor benefits if a work-related injury results in death.

Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations

Pennsylvania Mandate: First Employee

Pennsylvania requires workers comp from the first employee under the Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Act. Failure to carry required coverage is a misdemeanor.

Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau

Workers comp rates in Pennsylvania are set by the PCRB, which files rates with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. Pennsylvania uses NCCI class codes for rate classification.

State Workers Insurance Fund

Pennsylvania's State Workers Insurance Fund (SWIF) is the public workers comp option for employers who cannot obtain private market coverage. SWIF insures all eligible Pennsylvania employers.

NCCI Class Code 9586

Pennsylvania barbershops are classified under NCCI class code 9586 (Barber or Beauty Parlor). All non-exempt barber and staff payroll is rated under this code.

Booth Rental Barbers

Pennsylvania barbers renting booth space as independent contractors are generally not covered under the shop owner's workers comp policy. Confirm worker classification status with your carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Pennsylvania require workers comp for barbershops?

Yes. Pennsylvania requires workers comp from the first employee.

What is the penalty for not carrying workers comp in Pennsylvania?

Failure to carry required workers comp coverage is a misdemeanor under Pennsylvania law. Civil penalties also apply.

What class code applies to Pennsylvania barbershop workers comp?

Class code 9586 (Barber or Beauty Parlor) is the standard NCCI code for barbershop employees in Pennsylvania.

Does workers comp cover booth rental barbers in Pennsylvania?

Not automatically. Independent contractor booth renters are generally not covered under the shop owner's workers comp policy.

How much does workers comp cost for Pennsylvania barbershops?

Small Pennsylvania barbershops with 1 to 3 employees typically pay $1,400 to $3,500 per year, depending on payroll, claims history, and carrier.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance or legal advice. Coverage details and costs vary by carrier and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent for guidance specific to your situation.

Sources

• Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau
• Pennsylvania State Workers Insurance Fund
• Insurance Information Institute
• Professional Beauty Association