Yes, you need insurance before your first job — here’s why
If a client asks to see proof you have insurance before your first job, you must have it. You can’t wait until after the work starts. Workers’ compensation insurance proves your business is ready for the job. It also shows the client that your business has the coverage they ask for. You need it before day one — not after.
What happens if you don’t have insurance and the client asks on day one?
If you don’t have insurance and the client asks for a certificate on the first day, you can’t work. Many clients won’t let you start without proof. Some won’t even book you. It’s like showing up to a party without a ticket — you can’t get in. You need the insurance first to prove you are ready to work.
What steps do you take before your first job?
- Find out what kind of insurance the client asks for. UNO sells workers’ compensation only.
- Get a quote for your state and kind of work. The quote will show the price for the kind of work you do. The quote uses your state’s rules to choose the right class code for your work. For example, carpentry might fall under a code for construction or woodworking — your quote will tell you for sure.
- Buy the policy. It will give you a certificate of insurance you can show your client. This proves your business has insurance before you start any work.
How fast can you get it done?
You can get a quote in minutes. The process is online and quick. You pay by card and sign your documents. Cimarron issues your policy within 24 business hours of your payment and signed documents. Then you can show your client the certificate. So start before the day you need it. The premium is fully earned, so once the policy is issued there is no refund.
What if the client asks to see proof the same day you start?
If the client asks to see proof the same day you start, you need to be ready. If you don’t have the certificate, you can’t work that day. It’s like trying to drive a car without a license — you can’t do it. Cimarron issues your policy within 24 business hours of your payment and signed documents, so start your quote well before the job. That way, if the client asks, you can show them the certificate.
What happens if you start work without insurance?
Always have your insurance before starting the job. It shows the client you are responsible.
What if you get asked to show the certificate during the job?
Some clients ask for proof during the job. If you don’t have it ready, you might have to stop work. It’s best to have the certificate before the job starts so you’re ready at any time. That way, you won’t lose work or time. You can always show the certificate again if the client needs it later.
What if I get hurt while doing the job?
If you get hurt doing the work, a ghost policy does not pay you. It does not cover you, the owner. You reject coverage for yourself when you buy it, so it pays no medical bills or lost wages to you. If you want a policy that pays you when you get hurt, you need regular workers' comp, not a ghost policy.
Work above 15 feet can't be covered by this program. If any of your carpentry goes that high, you need regular workers' comp instead.
A ghost policy is for the owner only. That means no employees and no subcontractors of any kind, even subs who carry their own insurance or hand you a certificate. If anyone else works for you — an employee, a subcontractor, a 1099 worker, day labor, or a family member who helps — you need regular workers' comp, not a ghost policy.
How to get started today
To get started, start your quote. It will show you the price for your state and the work you do. Once you pay and sign, Cimarron issues your policy within 24 business hours of your payment and signed documents. Then you get a certificate you can show your client. Your quote takes minutes, so start before your first job. You don’t need to wait for a paper form or talk to an agent. Everything is online. That way, you’re ready when the client needs proof.
