Ghost Policy Workers Comp
for California Contractors
Workers' compensation requirements for California sole proprietors depend on trade classification and current law. A zero-payroll option may be available only when legally permitted and accepted by the carrier, client, or certificate holder.
Contractor Insurance by California City
Explore localized contractor insurance guidance for major California markets. Each city hub explains local project context, CSLB and workers compensation considerations, coverage questions, and information to prepare for a broker review.
Coverage availability, pricing, limits, effective dates, and binding are subject to complete information, policy terms, carrier eligibility, and underwriting. This page is general information, not a coverage promise or legal advice.
What Is a Ghost Policy?
A ghost policy is a zero-payroll workers compensation option for an eligible sole proprietor with no employees. Availability and acceptance depend on trade classification, current California law, carrier underwriting, and the requirements of the CSLB, client, or certificate holder.
The term "ghost policy" is an industry phrase for a zero-payroll workers compensation arrangement that may be appropriate for an eligible sole proprietor. It is one possible way to address a CSLB or client certificate request when permitted by current law and accepted by the carrier or certificate holder.
⚠️ SB 216 — Phase 1 (Jan 1, 2023) & Phase 2 (Jan 1, 2028)
Phase 1 (Jan 1, 2023): Eliminated the WC exemption for C-8 Concrete, C-20 HVAC, C-22 Asbestos Abatement, C-39 Roofing, and D-49 Tree Service sole proprietors. Ghost policies no longer satisfy WC requirements for these trades.
Phase 2 (Jan 1, 2028): Extends the WC requirement to ALL remaining CSLB license classifications. If your trade is not already in Phase 1, Phase 2 will affect you. Our brokers will verify your classification and help you get compliant before the deadline.
Who Qualifies for a Ghost Policy?
Sole Proprietors
You own the business and have no W-2 employees. You may use subcontractors (1099) but do not directly employ workers.
CSLB License Holders
You hold an active California contractor's license and need to satisfy the CSLB workers comp requirement.
Other Trades Through Dec. 31, 2027
A zero-payroll option may be available for eligible sole proprietors outside the current mandatory trade groups. Eligibility remains subject to current law, carrier rules, and the January 1, 2028 statewide phase-in.
COI Requestors
Your clients or general contractors require a Certificate of Insurance showing workers comp coverage before you can work on their projects.
Frequently Asked Questions — Ghost Policy
Ghost Policy Coverage for California Contractors Statewide
Asena Capital issues ghost policies for sole proprietor contractors across all of California. COI processing available in most counties.
Get Your Ghost Policy Today
COI processing and eligibility review under current California requirements.
Also see: Workers Comp · COI processing · CSLB Requirements
Ghost Policy & Workers Comp by California City
Find city-specific workers comp and ghost policy information for your California contracting business.
👻 Ghost policy vs. standard WC — which one do you need?
See who qualifies, what SB 216 changed, and the full cost comparison for your trade.