Labor Laws and Insurance: What Every Small Business Owner Should Know

As your business grows, so do your responsibilities—and that includes staying compliant with employment laws and protecting yourself, your team, and your operations through the right insurance coverage.

Whether you’re preparing to hire your first employee or already managing a growing team, it’s important to understand your obligations. From wage and hour rules to workplace safety and required insurance policies, this page offers key resources to help you stay informed and in compliance.

While we don’t provide legal or insurance advice, we’ve gathered a list of trusted, up-to-date links to help you:

• Understand Wisconsin labor laws and federal employment regulations
• Learn about required permits and employee rights
• Explore different types of business insurance, from general liability to workers’ comp
• Know when it’s time to talk with a licensed professional

Use This Page To:

• Explore laws related to wages, hours, and breaks
• Understand rules around hiring minors and work permits
• Learn about workplace posters, OSHA compliance, and employee protections
• Get familiar with insurance basics so you can ask the right questions
• Find out what coverage is required for your industry or structure

Running a compliant and protected business doesn’t have to be overwhelming—start with the links below to get grounded in the essentials.

Wisconsin Labor Laws

• Department of Workforce Development
• Homebase — The Wisconsin Employment Law Guide
• Employment Law Handbook — Wisconsin Labor Laws 2025
• Wisconsin State Law Library — Labor Standards

Wisconsin Work Permits

A work permit is required before anyone under the age of 16 is allowed to work in any job with the exception of agriculture or domestic service work.

• Milwaukee Public Library — TeenJobResources
• Department of Workforce Development — Work Permits

Minimum Wage

• Minimum-Wage.org — Wisconsin

Small Business Insurance Basics

Having the right insurance coverage is a key part of protecting your business, your employees, and yourself. From general liability and property insurance to workers’ compensation and professional liability, the types of coverage you need may vary based on your industry, size, and structure. Even if you’re a solo entrepreneur, having coverage in place can help you manage risk and stay prepared for the unexpected. We recommend talking to one of these experts who can guide you through the insurance process:

Newsletter