Colorado exempts household employers from mandatory workers' compensation. Here's what Denver-area and Colorado host families need.
Colorado Requirements
Required:
- ✅ Auto insurance addition (if au pair drives)
Not Required But Recommended:
- 💡 Workers' Compensation Insurance
- 💡 Supplemental medical insurance
Workers' Compensation
Household Exemption
Colorado exempts domestic workers from mandatory workers' comp coverage. However, we recommend coverage for:
- Liability protection
- Medical cost coverage
- Peace of mind
Cost estimate: $450 - $900/year — relatively affordable in CO.
Auto Insurance
Colorado requires auto insurance. If your au pair drives:
Minimum Requirements
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 property damage
Colorado-Specific Considerations
- Mountain driving — If you ski or travel to mountains, your au pair needs winter driving skills
- Altitude — Some vehicles perform differently at altitude
- Weather changes — Colorado weather is unpredictable
Cost to Add Au Pair
Expect $250 - $600/year extra. Denver metro rates are moderate; mountain communities vary.
Denver Area
Denver-area families:
- Growing au pair community
- Good suburban driving conditions
- RTD (public transit) is limited but improving
Get Started
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