Monopolistic state fund

Published 2026-06-12 · by Brokly

In plain terms: In a handful of states, workers' comp must be bought from the state itself — there is no private market to shop.

Why it matters to you

Four states work this way: North Dakota, Ohio, Washington, and Wyoming. If you're in one of them, no agent or insurer can sell you workers' comp — you buy from the state fund, at the state's rates. It's why those states show no private-insurer price on the cost pages here.

Where you’ll see it

Marked with a † on the state tables across this site — the footnote names the arrangement wherever it applies.

Related terms

Workers' compensation insurance

Definitions describe how policies are typically structured — exact terms live in the policy. Not legal or compliance advice.

Sources: Washington DES — Out-of-State Workers' Compensation FAQ (as of 2023-08, retrieved 2026-06-12) · Wyoming Department of Insurance — Workers' Compensation (retrieved 2026-06-12)