Updated: February 18, 2026

Rhode Island notebook: Everything you need to know about staying compliant

Published By:

Jon Davis

This article explains which Rhode Island employers are required to carry workers' compensation

Are you doing business in the state of Rhode Island? Below are the mandates you need to be aware of

When running a business there’s a lot to keep track of. So to keep you two steps ahead, use our guide to keep your company compliant with all of Rhode Island’s requirements so you can stay focused on growing your team and exceeding your business goals.

Rhode Island’s upcoming retirement mandate

  • Rhode Island is developing a state-mandated retirement savings program, RISavers, for employers with 5+ more employees, with phased deadlines starting in 2026.
  • For more information on offering retirement savings, see how we can help you set up a 401(k) for your business. Learn more

Workers’ comp mandate

Did you know that the state of Rhode Island requires almost all businesses with 1+ employees to provide a workers’ compensation policy?

Short-term disability

In the state of Rhode Island, most employers are required to have a short-term disability insurance policy. This is also sometimes referred to as temporary disability insurance.

Sexual harassment training

Though harassment training is not required in the state of Rhode Island, it is highly recommended.

State registration

If you employ an employee in the state of Rhode Island, you are required to set up state unemployment and withholding accounts. If you would like to streamline this process and take it off your plate, please visit our partner, Middesk to learn more.

Take a tour to see how easy payroll can be.

Jon Davis is the Sr. Content Marketing Manager at OnPay. He has over 15 years of experience writing for small and growing businesses. Jon lives and works in Atlanta.