Why work with us?
- Specialized Expertise
- Tailored Coverage Plans
- Cost-Effective Premiums
- Claims Management
- Safety and Risk Management
- Long-Term Partnership
- Responsive Customer Service

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Tel: (443)869-6424

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​Chesapeake Employers' Insurance Company, formerly known as IWIF (Injured Workers' Insurance Fund), is a workers' compensation insurance provider based in Maryland, USA. It is a state-created, non-profit, and independent public corporation. Chesapeake Employers' Insurance Company primarily focuses on providing workers' compensation insurance coverage to employers and businesses in Maryland.

The company's mission is to help protect employees and employers by providing the necessary insurance coverage and support in the event of workplace injuries or accidents. Workers' compensation insurance is designed to provide financial benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job, while also protecting employers from certain legal liabilities related to workplace injuries.
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Please note that the information I provided is based on my knowledge as of September 2021, and there may have been developments or changes since that time.

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​Protect Your Employees.

Your Workers' Compensation Specialist.

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Benefits of Chesapeake Employers Insurance

Choosing to work with Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company, or any insurance company, depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are some reasons why you might consider working with Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company:
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1. Specialization: Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company specializes in workers' compensation insurance. If you are an employer looking for workers' comp coverage in the Chesapeake Bay region, they may have expertise and tailored solutions to meet your needs.
2. Local Presence: If your business is based in Maryland, Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company's local presence can be beneficial. They may have a better understanding of the unique regulations and requirements in the state.
3. Competitive Rates: It's important to compare rates and coverage options from different insurance providers. Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company may offer competitive pricing for workers' compensation insurance.
4. Customer Service: Excellent customer service can be a deciding factor when choosing an insurance provider. Research customer reviews and ratings to gauge the company's reputation for service.
5. Claims Handling: A crucial aspect of any insurance company is how efficiently and effectively they handle claims. Research their claims process and customer feedback to determine if they have a good track record in this area.
6. Customized Coverage: Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company may offer customized coverage options to meet the specific needs of your business and industry.
7. Risk Management Services: Some insurance companies provide additional services to help businesses manage and reduce workplace risks. Investigate whether Chesapeake Employers offers risk management services that could benefit your organization.

Before deciding to work with any insurance company, it's essential to do your due diligence. Compare quotes, research their reputation, and consider your specific needs to determine if Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company is the right fit for your business. You may also want to consult with an insurance agent or broker for guidance in making this decision.

What is Workers Compensation?

Workers' compensation is a form of insurance that provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses. It is a crucial component of the social safety net in many countries, including the United States. The primary goal of workers' compensation is to ensure that employees who are injured or become ill due to their job are provided with the necessary support, including:
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1. Medical Benefits: Workers' compensation covers the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization, medication, and other healthcare expenses related to the work-related injury or illness.
2. Wage Replacement: In cases where the employee is unable to work due to the injury or illness, workers' compensation provides wage replacement benefits. This typically covers a portion of the employee's lost income during their recovery period.
3. Permanent Disability Benefits: In situations where an employee sustains a permanent injury or disability, workers' compensation may provide ongoing benefits to compensate for the permanent loss of earning capacity.
4. Vocational Rehabilitation: Workers' compensation may offer vocational rehabilitation programs to help employees retrain or acquire new skills if their injuries prevent them from returning to their previous jobs.
5. Death Benefits: If a work-related injury or illness results in the death of an employee, workers' compensation typically provides benefits to the surviving dependents, such as the deceased employee's spouse and children.

Workers' compensation laws vary by jurisdiction, but in many places, it is a no-fault system. This means that employees do not need to prove that their employer was at fault for the injury or illness. As long as the injury or illness is work-related, employees are generally eligible for benefits.

Employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance to cover their employees, and this insurance helps protect both employees and employers. Employees receive the necessary financial support for medical care and wage replacement, while employers are generally protected from lawsuits related to workplace injuries or illnesses when workers' compensation is in place.
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It's essential for both employees and employers to understand the workers' compensation system in their respective regions, as requirements and benefits can vary from one place to another.

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What is a workers comp MOD

A Workers' Compensation Experience Modification Rate, often referred to as a "mod" or "mod factor," is a numerical representation used in the workers' compensation insurance industry to assess and adjust an employer's insurance premiums based on their historical claims experience. The primary purpose of the mod factor is to encourage and reward employers for maintaining a safe work environment and effectively managing workplace injuries.

Here are some key points to understand about a Workers' Comp Mod:
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1. Calculation: The mod factor is calculated based on an employer's historical claims data over a specific period, typically the three most recent years. It compares the actual losses (claims paid) to the expected losses (claims that would be anticipated for a business of a similar size and industry).
2. Effect on Premiums: The mod factor can either increase or decrease an employer's workers' compensation insurance premiums. A mod factor greater than 1.00 suggests that the employer has had more claims and losses than expected and will likely lead to higher premiums. Conversely, a mod factor less than 1.00 indicates fewer claims and losses than expected, potentially reducing premiums.
3. Impact of Safety Measures: Employers who invest in workplace safety and effectively manage claims can lower their mod factor. Conversely, a lack of focus on safety and an increase in claims can result in a higher mod factor and increased insurance costs.
4. Industry Comparison: The mod factor compares an employer's claims experience to the industry average for businesses of similar size and type. This helps create a level playing field for companies within the same industry.
5. Rating Period: The mod factor is typically updated annually, with each rating period reflecting the most recent three years of claims data.
6. Experience Rating Plan: The mod factor is part of an experience rating plan, and it's regulated by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) or an equivalent state agency, depending on the jurisdiction.

In summary, a Workers' Comp Mod is a numeric factor used to adjust an employer's workers' compensation insurance premiums based on their historical claims experience. It incentivizes employers to prioritize workplace safety and effective claims management to potentially reduce insurance costs.

Is Workers Comp Required in Maryland?

Yes, in the state of Maryland, employers are generally required to have workers' compensation insurance coverage. Maryland law mandates that most employers with one or more employees must carry workers' compensation insurance. This requirement is in place to ensure that employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work have access to necessary medical care and wage replacement benefits.

Employers in Maryland can obtain workers' compensation insurance through private insurance carriers or by self-insuring, provided they meet the state's self-insurance requirements. Failure to provide the required workers' compensation coverage can result in penalties, fines, and legal liabilities for employers.
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It's important for employers to be aware of their responsibilities under Maryland's workers' compensation laws and to comply with the regulations to protect both their employees and their businesses. If you have specific questions or need assistance regarding workers' compensation insurance in Maryland, it's advisable to consult with an insurance professional or the Maryland Workers' Compensation Commission for guidance.

​workers' compensation insurance for small business

​Workers' compensation insurance is a crucial consideration for small businesses to protect both employees and employers in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses. Here are some key points to understand about workers' compensation insurance for small businesses:

1. Legal Requirement:
   • In many jurisdictions, workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for businesses with employees. The specific requirements vary by location, so it's essential to check the regulations in your area.
2. Coverage:
   • Workers' compensation insurance typically covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages for employees who are injured or become ill while performing their job duties.
3. Employee Eligibility:
   • The coverage usually applies to all employees, including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. Some jurisdictions may have exemptions for certain categories of workers, such as independent contractors.
4. Exemptions for Small Businesses:
   • Some jurisdictions may have exemptions or different rules for small businesses based on the number of employees. However, even small businesses with a few employees are often required to carry workers' compensation insurance.
5. Insurance Providers:
   • Small businesses can obtain workers' compensation insurance from private insurance companies or through state-operated funds, depending on the jurisdiction.
6. Cost Factors:
   • The cost of workers' compensation insurance is influenced by factors such as the nature of the business, the number of employees, the industry's risk level, and the company's claims history.
7. Premium Calculation:
   • Insurance premiums are typically calculated based on the total payroll and the classification of job duties. High-risk jobs generally have higher premiums.
8. Claims Process:
   • In the event of a workplace injury or illness, employees are generally required to report the incident to their employer promptly. Employers, in turn, must initiate the workers' compensation claims process.
9. Penalties for Non-Compliance:
   • Failing to carry workers' compensation insurance when required can lead to severe penalties, fines, and legal consequences for businesses.
10. Safety Programs:
    • Implementing safety programs and maintaining a safe work environment can help reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries, leading to lower insurance premiums.
11. State-Specific Regulations:
    • Regulations regarding workers' compensation insurance can vary significantly between states and countries. It's crucial to be aware of and comply with the specific requirements in your jurisdiction.

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For accurate and personalized information regarding workers' compensation insurance for your small business, it is advisable to consult with our office for the laws and regulations in your area.

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​Workers Compensation Insurance Verification

​Verifying workers' compensation insurance is an essential step for businesses when engaging with contractors, subcontractors, or other entities providing services. Here's a general guide on how you can verify workers' compensation insurance:

1. Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI):
   • The most common method to verify workers' compensation insurance is by requesting a Certificate of Insurance from the party you are dealing with (contractor, subcontractor, etc.). This document provides details about the insurance coverage, including the policy number, coverage limits, and effective dates.
2. Check Policy Information:
   • Review the information on the Certificate of Insurance to ensure that it includes workers' compensation coverage. Verify that the policy is currently active and covers the relevant time period.
3. Contact the Insurance Carrier:
   • You can directly contact the insurance carrier listed on the Certificate of Insurance to verify the policy's authenticity and confirm the coverage details. Contact information for the insurance carrier should be provided on the certificate.
4. Online Verification Tools:
   • Some jurisdictions and insurance companies offer online tools or databases where you can verify workers' compensation coverage. Check with the relevant state or local workers' compensation authority to see if they provide such services.
5. Use a Third-Party Service:
   • There are third-party services and websites that specialize in insurance verification. These services may charge a fee, but they can quickly provide confirmation of insurance coverage.
6. Require Additional Insured Endorsement:
   • In addition to the Certificate of Insurance, you can request an Additional Insured Endorsement. This endorsement extends the workers' compensation coverage to include the party requesting verification (e.g., a property owner or general contractor).
7. Regularly Verify Coverage:
   • It's a good practice to regularly verify the workers' compensation coverage of contractors and other entities you work with, especially if the engagement is ongoing or if there are changes in the scope of work.
8. Legal Compliance:
   • Ensure that the workers' compensation coverage complies with the legal requirements in your jurisdiction. Coverage requirements and regulations can vary, so it's important to be aware of the specific rules that apply to your business location.

Remember that workers' compensation regulations and verification methods can vary by jurisdiction, so it's crucial to be familiar with the rules in your specific area. If you have any doubts or concerns, consider consulting with an insurance professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to your situation and location.

We help transition your coverage to a new carrier.

Switching workers' compensation carriers can vary in ease depending on several factors, including your business's specific circumstances, state regulations, and the policies of the insurance carriers involved. Here are some considerations:

1. Policy Term:
   • Check the terms of your current workers' compensation policy. Some policies have fixed terms, and switching carriers before the policy expiration may involve penalties or fees.
2. Renewal Period:
   • If your policy is approaching renewal, it might be easier to switch carriers at that time. Be sure to start the process well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
3. Cancellation Procedures:
   • Review the cancellation procedures outlined in your current policy. Some policies may allow for cancellation with notice, while others might have specific requirements or penalties.
4. Notice Period:
   • Some states and insurance policies require a notice period before cancellation. Ensure you comply with any notice requirements to avoid complications.
5. Experience Modification Factor (Mod):
   • If your business has an experience modification factor, switching carriers may impact this factor. Some carriers may recalculate the mod, potentially affecting your premium. Be aware of the potential financial implications.
6. Claims History:
   • A carrier may review your claims history before agreeing to provide coverage. A favorable claims history can make the transition smoother, while a history of frequent or severe claims might pose challenges.
7. New Carrier Requirements:
   • The new carrier may have specific requirements for underwriting, such as inspections, safety programs, or documentation. Be prepared to provide the necessary information.
8. Coverage Continuity:
   • Ensure there is no gap in coverage during the transition. It's crucial to have continuous coverage to comply with legal requirements and protect your employees.
9. Comparative Analysis:
   • Before making a switch, conduct a comparative analysis of quotes, coverage, and terms offered by different carriers. Consider not only the cost but also the level of service and coverage provided.
10. State Regulations:
    • Familiarize yourself with the workers' compensation regulations in your state, as they can influence the ease of switching carriers. Some states may have specific rules and procedures governing the process.
11. Broker Assistance:
    • If you work with an insurance broker, they can assist in the transition process. Brokers often have relationships with multiple carriers and can guide you through the switch.

It's recommended to communicate with both your current and prospective insurance carriers to understand the process, potential costs, and any specific requirements involved in switching. Additionally, consulting with an insurance professional or broker can provide valuable insights tailored to your business's needs and circumstances.

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​Obtaining Workers' Compensation quotes through Chesapeake Employers Insurance offers several advantages:
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1. Specialization in Workers' Compensation: Chesapeake Employers Insurance specializes in Workers' Compensation coverage, providing expertise and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of businesses and their employees.
2. Industry Knowledge: As a leading provider in the field, Chesapeake Employers has extensive knowledge of industry trends, regulations, and best practices. This expertise ensures that businesses receive accurate and up-to-date information when obtaining quotes.
3. Competitive Rates: Chesapeake Employers Insurance aims to offer competitive rates for Workers' Compensation coverage, helping businesses manage costs while providing comprehensive protection for their workforce.
4. Tailored Solutions: Chesapeake Employers understands that different businesses have unique requirements. They can provide customized solutions that align with the specific risks and characteristics of your industry, helping you secure the most appropriate coverage.
5. Ease of Process: Working with a specialized provider like Chesapeake Employers can streamline the process of obtaining Workers' Compensation quotes. Their dedicated team can guide you through the process, making it more straightforward and efficient.
6. Focus on Safety: Chesapeake Employers often emphasizes workplace safety initiatives. By obtaining quotes through them, businesses may gain access to resources and advice that promote a safer work environment, potentially reducing the likelihood of accidents and claims.
7. Reputation and Reliability: Chesapeake Employers Insurance has a reputation for reliability and stability in the insurance industry. Choosing a reputable provider can instill confidence that your Workers' Compensation needs will be met consistently and professionally.

Always carefully review the terms and conditions of any insurance policy and compare quotes to ensure they align with your business's specific requirements and budget.