Connecticut requires workers' compensation for household employees earning $1,000 or more per quarter. Most au pairs easily exceed this threshold.
Connecticut Requirements
Required (if wages ≥ $1,000/quarter):
- ✅ Workers' Compensation Insurance
- ✅ Auto insurance addition (if au pair drives)
Recommended:
- 💡 Supplemental medical insurance
Workers' Compensation
The $1,000 Threshold
Connecticut requires workers' comp when you pay a household employee $1,000 or more in any calendar quarter.
Au pair math:
- Federal minimum stipend: ~$200/week
- Quarterly wages: ~$2,600
- Result: Way over the $1,000 threshold
If you have an au pair, you need workers' comp in Connecticut.
How to Get Coverage
Connecticut has a competitive insurance market:
- GTM Payroll Services
- HomeWork Solutions
- NEXT Insurance
- Various CT-based insurers
Cost estimate: $600 - $1,200/year
Auto Insurance
Connecticut requires auto insurance for all vehicles. If your au pair drives:
Minimum Requirements
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 property damage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Adding Your Au Pair
Contact your insurer to add your au pair as a listed driver. Expect to pay an additional $300 - $800/year.
Proximity to NYC
Many Connecticut families (especially in Fairfield County) commute to New York City. If your au pair ever drives into NY:
- Your CT auto insurance should cover them
- Be aware of NYC's complex traffic rules
- Consider whether driving into the city is necessary
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