Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard is a premium protection add-on for companies hiring international contractors through Contractor of Record - Ontop agreement. Provides financial coverage against misclassification claims, covering legal defense costs, regulatory fines and compensation obligations, up to a defined limit.
In simple terms: If a government authority determines that one of your contractors should be classified as an employee, Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard helps cover the associated costs, so your company doesn't have to bear them alone.
Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard is not an insurance product. It is a contractual commitment by Ontop to cover certain defined costs up to an agreed limit. It does not eliminate legal risk or replace your legal advisors.
Who can access Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard?
Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard is available to customers who meet all of the following conditions:
- you are using Contractor of Record - Ontop agreement (the model in which Ontop manages the service contract between you and your contractor)
- Your contractors are located in international jurisdictions supported (see exclusions below)
Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard is NOT available if:
- Contractor of Record - Tri-party agreement
- Your contractors are in United States or Mexico
- You and your contractor are in the same country
Not sure which model you use? Contact your Account Manager or write to us through the support chat.
What does Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard cover?
When active and all contractual requirements are met, Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard covers:
- Legal defense costs related to a misclassification claim
- Regulatory fines or sanctions issued by local labor authorities
- Compensation obligations to the worker if the claim is valid
Coverage is up to $100,000 per client . There is no limit per worker.
What is NOT covered by Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard?
Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard does not cover costs derived from:
- Fraud, intentional misconduct or bad faith actions on the part of the client
- Tax evasion or intentionally incorrect reporting
- Failure to fulfill your own obligations under the service contract
- Discrimination or other labor violations not related to the worker's classification
- Claims involving workers in excluded jurisdictions
Coverage is also voided if the Ontop-approved contract is modified in any way.
How much does Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard cost?
Ontop Guard costs $2,000 a month , with a coverage limit of $100,000 per client .
Coverage is structured annually. Contact your Account Manager for more details.
How do I activate Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard?
Ontop Guard is not yet available as a self-serve option within the platform. To activate it:
- Express your interest to your Account Manager or click the message within the app (if you see it)
- Your Account Manager will confirm your eligibility
- You will receive a contractual annex to sign
- Coverage is activated once the annex is signed
If you don't know who your Account Manager is, contact us through the support chat and we'll connect you.
What happens if I have a claim?
If a claim arises for misclassification:
- Notify your Account Manager as soon as possible
- Send relevant documentation through your AM
- Ontop's legal team reviews eligibility and defines the resolution path
Resolution may include Ontop negotiating directly with the worker, reimbursing your legal costs, or working with an outside law firm, always within the coverage limit.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard the same as insurance?
No. Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard is a contractual commitment of Ontop, not a regulated insurance product. Ontop does not act as an insurer. What it offers is structured financial support: if a covered claim is valid and you have met your obligations, Ontop covers the defined costs up to the agreed limit.
Does Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard cover all my contractors?
Covers all eligible contractors under your account, with no limit per worker, up to a maximum of $100,000 per client.
What happens if my contractor is in Colombia?
Colombia is covered. Contact your Account Manager to confirm the details of your specific case.
Does modifying the contract affect my coverage?
Yes. Coverage is void if the Ontop approved contract is modified in any way. You must use the templates as provided.
Can I add Ontop Protection - Ontop Guard to existing Contractor of Record - Ontop agreement contracts?
Yes. You can add it by signing a contractual annex. Contact your Account Manager to get started.
Is there a waiting period for coverage?
No. Coverage is activated once the annex is signed.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Contact your Account Manager directly or write to Ontop support through the chat on the platform or website.