ACC cover options for self-employed people or contractors

If you’re self-employed or a contractor you have two options for ACC cover, either CoverPlus or CoverPlus Extra.

These two options have different levy calculations and entitlements, so it’s important you choose the right one for your circumstances.

Standard cover – CoverPlus

ACC automatically places contractors and people who are self-employed on CoverPlus.

If you can’t work or perform your usual duties due to a covered injury, ACC can pay weekly compensation up to 80% of your taxable income. This is based on your earnings over the last financial year.

For example, on CoverPlus, if you earn $52,000 per year you could get up to 80% of that each week, which is $800 before tax.

Optional cover – CoverPlus Extra (CPX)

CoverPlus Extra is optional and allows you to choose how much of your income you want to be covered if you have an accident and can’t work or perform your usual duties due to a covered injury.

You can also choose whether you want full compensation, or lower levels of compensation in return for a lower levy. ACC will pay compensation based on your chosen cover amount and option.

CoverPlus Extra is especially suited to those who:

• have fluctuating income, either yearly or seasonal as you’ll know exactly how much we’ll pay
• want to choose how much you’re covered for
• are newly self-employed with no earnings history and want assurances around your cover.

You can apply for CoverPlus Extra in MyACC for Business. This cover must be in place prior to an accident for it to come into effect.

Log in or register for MyACC for Business

What cover is right for me?

A comparison of CoverPlus and CoverPlus Extra is available to help you determine which type of cover would best meet your needs.

If you’re still unsure which option, or level of cover is best for you, we recommend you seek independent financial advice.

For more information about understanding your cover options visit the ACC website.