Learning topic
Careers & Credentials
What a credential actually proves, how to check one, and the difference between a personal licence and a business record.
Chapter 1
What a credential actually means
A licence, a registration, and a certificate are three different things.
These three things get confused constantly. Here is what each one actually means.
- A business registration shows that a company exists as a legal entity. It does not mean the company is qualified or good at the work.
- A license or certificate means a state or local agency decided the holder met its rules for a certain trade or profession. The rules differ by state and by industry. Some industries are not licensed at all.
- Insurance protects against losses. General liability and workers' compensation are different policies with different jobs.
- Workers' compensation covers injuries to workers on the job. In many states, a business with no employees can file for an exemption. An exemption is not the same as coverage.
- A certificate of insurance is a snapshot. Make sure it is current and that it covers the work being done.
- Always confirm licensing and coverage with the official agency or the insurer. Papers can be changed or expired.
Chapter 2
Checking a credential
How to look up a licence or certificate on the issuing agency's own site.
More resources coming soon.
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