Contractor Insurance You Can Trust

Can I Get a Ghost Policy for a GC?

Yes — a ghost policy is a legitimate and widely used workers comp structure for general contractors who work alone and need to satisfy client COI requirements.

• ✓Ghost policies are legal and recognized in most states
• ✓Provides a valid COI showing workers comp in force
• ✓Owner is excluded — minimum premium of $500–$1,500 typically
• ✓Same-day binding and certificate issuance available

Or call (234) 231-8427 — Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM EST

How a Ghost Policy Works for General Contractors

A ghost policy is a workers comp policy where the business owner has filed an exclusion, removing themselves from covered payroll. Because there are no covered employees and no payroll, the carrier charges a minimum premium based on a floor set by the state or carrier — typically $500 to $1,500 annually.

The policy issues a Certificate of Insurance just like any standard workers comp policy. The COI shows the carrier, policy number, and coverage dates — exactly what a GC or property manager requires before allowing you on site.

For a solo GC who bids on commercial work or works under larger GCs, a ghost policy is almost universally the right solution. It’s far less expensive than full voluntary coverage, and it satisfies every practical requirement you’ll encounter.

What to Watch For with Ghost Policies as a GC

If you add any W-2 employees — even part-time or temporary helpers — you must add their payroll to the policy immediately. A ghost policy covers no one if the owner is excluded and there are no other employees. An injured helper with no coverage is a major liability.

Some states, notably Florida, require construction industry exemptions to be filed with the state Division of Workers’ Compensation — not just noted by the carrier. Confirm that your state-specific exclusion is properly filed before relying on the ghost policy for compliance purposes.

Ghost policies do not provide personal injury protection for the excluded owner. If you’re hurt on a job site, there’s no workers comp benefit coming. Consider an occupational accident policy for personal coverage alongside the ghost policy.

You Might Also Find Helpful

• Ghost Workers Comp Policies for 1099 Contractors
• Sole Proprietor Workers Comp Coverage
• Workers Comp Cost for Contractors
• Can Owners Exclude Themselves from Workers Comp?

Get a Ghost Policy COI in Hours, Not Days

We bind ghost policies same day across most states. Tell us your trade, state, and when you need to start — we’ll handle the rest.