Insurance FAQs
If you are new to independent contract work (also commonly known as freelance work or gig work), you may have questions about which kinds of insurance you might explore for yourself.
The information in this resource is provided as a general guide and does not provide any recommendations nor replace the need to seek advice from a licensed insurance professional to understand state requirements and make personal coverage decisions.
Does Senya provide me with insurance?
No, Senya does not provide insurance or any other benefits. This is because Senya is a technology platform, not an employer. The Senya platform is a space for schools to post substitute teacher needs and for substitutes to browse those work opportunities. As independent contractors, substitutes who use the platform maintain personal control over all aspects of their work, which includes decisions on insurance needs.
Do schools provide me with insurance?
No, schools do not provide insurance or any other benefits to substitutes who arrange work through the Senya platform. This is because schools are not your employer.
Am I required to have insurance?
You are not required to have insurance to access the Senya platform. However, you are expected to carry any insurance required by your state in relation to your independent contractor work.
No states have insurance requirements specific to substitute teaching. Some states may require independent contractors to carry their own worker's compensation insurance.
You can learn more about your state's requirements by reading online materials published by your state government or by speaking with a licensed insurance professional.
What kinds of insurance are available for me consider?
There are a few different kinds of insurance that you might consider as an independent contractor. You may be able to purchase policies from companies that you already use for your home, auto, or other insurance. Otherwise, there are numerous companies that you can compare.
General Liability Insurance
As an independent contractor, you are considered self-employed and are liable for the work that you perform. For substitute teacher independent contractors, that means that neither the school sites nor the Senya platform are able to cover you for any civil action that results from your work performance.
General liability insurance can cover a broad range of things, so if you choose to purchase it, you should customize it to things that are relevant to substitute teaching work. For example, since you do not run your "business" out of a physical location that customers visit, you would not need "slip and fall" coverage (a common option in general liability insurance). But, as a substitute teacher, you may want coverage to help with legal fees/defense costs in the event that a civil case were filed against you. For a full review of items to consider in a general liability policy, talk to a licensed insurance professional.
One important question when reviewing general liability policy options is the degree that you will be covered for negligent acts. No policies cover intentional acts that cause harm or damage, but many policies will cover issues that stem from accidental or negligent action, so this is something you will want to check.
Workers Compensation Insurance
As an independent contractor, you are not covered by school sites nor the Senya platform if you are injured during the performance of your work or have other circumstances that affect your ability to work (lost wages).
Most health insurance plans do not cover work-related injuries or illness, so you can consider if workers compensation insurance is something you will want. Some states require independent contractors to carry workers compensation insurance or apply for a waiver from the state. A licensed insurance professional can help you understand your specific state's laws on this.
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
As an independent contractor, you are not covered by school sites nor the Senya platform for medical, dental, and vision insurance. There are numerous state programs that you might qualify for based on economic circumstances, which provide free or subsidized health insurance plans. The federal government also provides free or subsidized plans for qualifying individuals or families through the Affordable Care Act. Speak with a licensed insurance professional, or review materials from official government sites, to explore options.
For those who do not qualify under state or federal programs, there are numerous private insurance companies that offer medical, dental, and vision insurance. It is recommended that you compare plans and costs carefully.
Life Insurance
As an independent contractor, you are not provided life insurance by schools or the Senya platform. Life insurance policies vary but typically offer rates based on a set payout should the covered individual pass away. When deciding on a policy, individuals consider at a minimum what might be needed to cover funeral costs, and if interested, what might be needed to provide for family members who remain.
Numerous companies offer life insurance policies; a licensed insurance professional can offer guidance on finding an appropriate policy.
