Who needs it?
As with most no-fault insurance, workers’ compensation is only fair if it applies to all workers and employers. Today, the state of Oregon requires almost all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance on their employees. If you employ workers in Oregon, you probably need workers’ compensation coverage. Ask yourself the following questions:

Am I an employer?
If you pay someone to work for you, and you are in charge, or have the right to direct and control how the work is done, that worker is probably your employee. If you believe the worker is an independent contractor, you can find additional information on our Web site.
Employer (ORS 656.005(13))

Do I have a worker?
If you pay someone to furnish services even if the pay is in exchange for something of value, the person being paid is a worker.
Worker (ORS 656.005(30))

Am I a subject employer?
If you are an employer with one or more subject workers, you must purchase a workers' compensation policy. The insurer will make a filing with Oregon on your behalf for proof of the coverage.
Subject Employer (ORS 656.023))

Is my worker a subject worker?
Every worker in Oregon is a subject worker unless the worker falls under an exemption. In Oregon, there are about 30 exemptions with most of them found in Oregon law ORS 656.027.
Subject worker (ORS 656.027)

How Do I Buy Workers' Compensation Insurance for Oregon?

Where can I call to ask about workers' compensation insurance requirements?
E-mail: Employer Compliance Unit
Phone: (503) 947-7815
Toll-free: 1-888-877-5670