Key Takeaways

  • Workers' compensation required for most Utah employers
  • Covers medical benefits and disability payments
  • No-fault system—employees cannot sue employers
  • Penalties for non-compliance include fines and loss of protections
  • Utah Labor Commission oversees workers' comp
Last updated: January 2026

Utah Workers' Compensation

Requirements

Utah employers must carry workers' comp:

  • Employers with 1 or more employees
  • Includes part-time and seasonal workers
  • Limited exemptions for certain industries

Exemptions

  • Sole proprietors without employees
  • Some agricultural operations
  • Certain independent contractors

Benefits Provided

Benefit TypeCoverage
MedicalAll necessary treatment
Temporary DisabilityWeekly payments during recovery
Permanent DisabilityScheduled or unscheduled benefits
Death BenefitsTo dependents
Vocational RehabRetraining if needed

Utah Labor Commission

Oversees workers' comp in Utah:

  • Adjudicates disputes
  • Ensures compliance
  • Protects worker rights

Exclusive Remedy

Workers' comp is exclusive remedy:

  • Employees cannot sue employer
  • Exception: Intentional injury by employer

Penalties

Non-compliance results in:

  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Stop-work orders
  • Criminal misdemeanor charges
  • Loss of exclusive remedy protection
  • Liability for all damages

Exam Tip: Utah workers' comp is required for employers with 1 or more employees. It provides no-fault coverage and is the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries.

Test Your Knowledge

How many employees must a Utah employer have before workers' compensation is required?

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D