Wisconsin Massage Liability Insurance Guidelines

Not many states require licensed therapists to have an insurance policy in place to practice. However, since the state requirements changed in 2009 and the state required all massage therapists (MTs) to become licensed, it also became a requirement for all therapists practicing to hold a Wisconsin massage insurance policy as well.

Although online professional liability (malpractice liability) is required, it is a good idea to consider personal liability (for claims such as slip and fall accidents), as well as property damage coverage, and possible rental property coverage, in the event something happens to your business property.

What Are The State Licensing Requirements?

In 2009, it became a requirement that all MTs practicing in Wisconsin must hold a license in order to practice. With this requirement comes the requirement that 600 hours of coursework be completed, prior to any applicant attempting the licensing exam. These hours can be completed in any state school that it is offered.

If coursework has been completed in a different state/an applicant holds a license from a different state, it is possible for them to forego the hours. You would then possibly attempt the exam via the reciprocity rules (depending on how much time you practiced as an LMT in the previous state).

Required Licensing Exams –

For those who are going to attempt the licensing exam, you must pass either the MBLEx, NCETMB, or NCCAOM.Laws, rules, and regulations in the state are tested, and some questions might cover technique, kinesiology, and other aspects of practicing as a massage professional. This is the final step to receiving your license, which will allow you the right to practice as an MT in the state. 

Renewal requirements –

Once an LMT in the state of Wisconsin, therapists will have to renew their license every two years, and can do so online. Depending on the type of business you plan on working for and the city you reside in, there may also be a requirement to attain a city license. Prior to beginning a new position, or starting your own practice in a specific locality, it is important to find out whether or not you are required to have a separate license to practice in the city; and, if so, how often you have to renew it, and what the costs are to keep that license.

Although you only need to purchase the minimum massage liability insurance policy that protects you from professional liability claims in Wisconsin, it is a good idea to consider full coverage options. Not only does this shield you from any form of liability/claims, but you can also find great rates when you purchase a full coverage policy, and take the time to compare the many professional insurance providers in the state and city that you practice in.

Wisconsin State Massage Therapy Resources

The following resources, including some employment statistics, are here to help you determine if being a massage therapist in the state of Wisconsin is the right career path for you:
Wisconsin massage employment statistics as of May, 2017:
Licensed Therapists: 4,176
Mean Hourly Wage: $18.40
Annual Mean Wage: $38,230
Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wi.htm

Education Requirements
Required Education Hours: 600 hours
Written or Practical Exam: Written Exam
Exam Administered: MBLEx, NCCAOM, or the State Law Exam
CEUs Required: 24 hours every 2 years
Renewal Fees: $82 every year
Source: https://www.massagetherapylicense.org/state/wisconsin-massage-license.html

For additional information about massage therapy in Wisconsin, follow these links:
State massage information: Wisconsin State Board of Massage Therapy
State employment stats: Bureau of Labor Statistics website

Compare Wisconsin’s massage therapist employment statistics to other states:
https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319011.htm