Workers Compensation Insurance for IDD Providers in Maryland: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you run a group home, in-home care agency, or adult day program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Maryland, workers’ compensation insurance isn’t optional—it’s essential. Not just for compliance, but for protecting your team, managing risk, and keeping your organization financially healthy.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the six key areas you need to understand when buying or managing workers compensation insurance for IDD providers in Maryland:

• What workers’ comp covers (and doesn’t)

• The most common class codes for IDD organizations

• Must-have support services from your insurance company

• Frequent claims and how to avoid them

• Cost-saving strategies

• How to get the best coverage for your Maryland-based agency

Let’s dive in.

1. What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance for IDD Programs in Maryland and Why It Matters

Workers’ compensation insurance pays for medical expenses and lost wages when a paid employee is injured on the job. For Maryland-based IDD service providers, this includes staff working in group homes, in-home support roles, or community-based settings.

What many providers don’t realize is that Maryland law also holds you responsible for uninsured subcontractors. So if your agency uses 1099 contractors to deliver services and they don’t carry their own workers’ comp, guess what? You’re likely picking up the tab at audit time.

In Maryland, the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) enforces strict standards. If you're not properly classifying and covering workers, you could face penalties, audits, or worse—lawsuits. This is especially relevant for small and mid-sized nonprofits that may not have formal HR departments keeping tabs on this.

2. The 5 Most Common Class Codes for IDD Providers in Maryland

When it comes to premium rates, the classification code matters more than most people realize. Here are the five most common workers' compensation class codes for IDD agencies operating in Maryland:

🔹 8835 – Home Health Care

This code applies to employees who enter clients’ homes to provide direct care or support. Many Maryland IDD agencies offer in-home support services that fall under this classification.

🔹 8842 – Group Homes

For residential programs regulated by the Maryland Department of Health or DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration), this is the go-to classification.

🔹 8864 – Social Services

This versatile code applies to case managers, community program staff, and respite care providers. It's common for IDD organizations that operate day programs or provide wraparound services in Maryland counties.

🔹 8810 – Clerical

Used for back-office staff like billing, finance, or HR—people who never interact directly with clients. Make sure your admin team is properly classified here for lower premiums.

🔹 8868 – Adult Day Programs

If your organization runs an adult day program for individuals with IDD, this is the appropriate code.

Tip for Maryland agencies: Use these codes accurately. Misclassifying employees can lead to higher audit bills and make your agency less attractive to insurers.

3. What to Look for in a Workers’ Comp Provider in Maryland

Not all insurance carriers are created equal—especially when it comes to IDD service providers. Here are three support services your Maryland workers' compensation insurance carrier should offer:

✅ Risk Control Services

Look for a carrier that provides onsite assessments to help you prevent claims. For example, Maryland-based programs often face seasonal risks like icy walkways—your insurer should help you mitigate those.

✅ Return-to-Work Programs

These programs help you bring injured staff back to work safely and quickly. They’re a major factor in keeping your experience mod low and saving money.

✅ 24/7 Nurse Triage

If a staff member gets hurt in the field, nurse triage gives them instant access to medical advice. It helps reduce unnecessary ER visits and ensures proper care from the start.

If your current provider doesn’t offer these, it might be time to shop around—especially if your claims history has driven up your rates.

4. Common Workers’ Comp Claims for Maryland IDD Providers

Understanding your most likely risks helps you avoid preventable claims and protect your budget. Here are the top claims we see in Maryland:

➤ Slip and Falls

Whether it’s ice, rain, or poor lighting, this is one of the most frequent sources of injury. Every Maryland winter brings a spike in fall-related claims—make sure you have a snow and ice removal plan.

➤ Lifting Injuries

Staff are often transferring clients or lifting equipment. A single strain injury could result in weeks of lost wages. Provide regular lifting safety training—and document it.

➤ Client Behavior Incidents

Sometimes clients strike, push, or behave unpredictably. While you can’t control every incident, you can document behaviors, debrief incidents, and train staff on how to de-escalate.

➤ Auto Accidents

Driving is part of many staff roles in Maryland—especially with community integration programs. Have a fleet safety plan, conduct MVR checks, and train employees on safe driving policies.

5. How Maryland IDD Providers Can Save on Workers’ Comp Insurance

Now let’s talk about the good stuff: saving money on your workers’ comp premium.

🔸 Work with a Maryland-Savvy Broker

Not all brokers understand the unique risk profile of IDD providers. Choose someone who knows the class codes, audit process, and has experience with DDA-regulated providers in Maryland.

🔸 Reduce Turnover

Statistically, new hires are much more likely to get injured. When you keep your staff longer, you reduce injuries—and your insurer takes notice.

🔸 Implement Return-to-Work Policies

We mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating. Return-to-work reduces claims severity, improves staff morale, and signals to underwriters that you’re serious about safety.

🔸 Be Audit-Ready

Keep clean, accurate payroll and subcontractor records. Maryland audits aren’t always fun—but they’re easier when your records are buttoned up.

Final Thoughts: Workers’ Comp Is a Pillar of IDD Risk Management

In Maryland, IDD providers face unique challenges. You’re providing essential services to a vulnerable population—and your workforce is exposed to more risk than most other industries.

Choosing the right workers compensation insurance for IDD providers in Maryland means:

• Knowing your classification codes

• Preventing claims before they happen

• Managing injuries smartly when they do

• Working with partners who understand your business

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If you're a Maryland-based provider and want a second opinion on your current setup—or need help getting a quote—I'm happy to talk.

Complete a form at the bottom of the page to reach out directly. Let’s make sure your workers’ comp program is helping you build something great.