How Much Does Workers' Compensation Insurance Cost?
The cost of workers' compensation insurance is determined by the workers' compensation board in your state. Although base rates vary slightly from state to state, the basic process each state uses to calculate base rates is similar.
Assigning risk classification
To determine workers' compensation insurance cost, each type of occupation is assigned a risk classification. Risk is determined by two factors: the frequency of on-the-job injury and the severity of injury. Severity is measured by both medical payments and indemnity benefits (payments made directly to the injured employee to compensate for losses suffered as a result of an accident).
In California, for example, roofers have the highest occupational risk classification, and office clerks have the lowest. Obviously the occupational hazards of a roofer are much different and quite a bit higher than those of an office clerk. Therefore, workers' compensation insurance rates are much higher for roofing companies than for administrative companies.
Calculating a base rate for workers' compensation
To arrive at a base rate for workers' compensation insurance, each classification is translated into a dollar amount, which is then multiplied by 1 percent per $100 of the total payroll for that employee. For example, the office clerk classification in California is roughly $1.25 per $100. So if that employee is paid $500 per week, the workers' compensation insurance premium for that employee costs roughly $6.25 per week.
Factors that affect base rate
There are a few factors that will ultimately affect the cost of workers' compensation insurance. Workers' compensation insurance carriers can reduce or increase base rates based on the employer's safety history. This is the most important factor contributing to the base rate. Another factor is whether or not the employer offers health insurance to their employees.
More articles from AllBusiness.com:
- Who Regulates Workplace and Occupational Safety?
- Tips on Choosing the Best Insurance to Protect Your Small Business
- Workplace Safety Regulations and Your Small Business
- Don’t Allow Your Small Business to Be at Risk—A Guide to Choosing Insurance
- What Is Premises Liability Coverage? A Guide for Business Owners
