Pennsylvania exempts household employers from mandatory workers' compensation, but coverage is recommended. Here's what PA host families need to know.
Pennsylvania Requirements
Required:
- ✅ Auto insurance addition (if au pair drives)
Not Required But Recommended:
- 💡 Workers' Compensation Insurance
- 💡 Supplemental medical insurance
Workers' Compensation
Household Exemption
Pennsylvania exempts domestic servants (including au pairs) from mandatory workers' comp. However, you can still be held liable for workplace injuries.
Why Consider Coverage?
Even without a legal requirement:
- Liability protection — You're personally responsible for injuries without coverage
- Medical costs — PA medical costs, especially in Philadelphia, are significant
- Peace of mind — Worth the modest annual cost
Cost estimate: $500 - $1,000/year
Auto Insurance
Pennsylvania requires auto insurance. If your au pair drives:
Minimum Requirements
- $15,000 bodily injury per person
- $30,000 bodily injury per accident
- $5,000 property damage
- $5,000 medical benefits
⚠️ Note: PA minimums are very low. Consider higher limits.
Cost to Add Au Pair
Expect $250 - $700/year extra. Rates are higher in Philadelphia metro, lower in rural areas.
Philadelphia Area
Philly families should note:
- Higher auto insurance rates than rest of PA
- Dense traffic requires experienced drivers
- Good public transit alternatives (SEPTA)
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