Workers Compensation - What actions moves the needle?

November 23, 2025

by a searcher from Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires in United States

Our workers comp renewal came in with a significant cost increase this year, and I’m trying to understand what levers actually work to bring this down in businesses with high exposure (labor intensive and 'risky'). For those who’ve dealt with this before: • What actions had the biggest impact on lowering your WC premiums over time? • Any operational changes, documentation practices, safety programs, or staffing strategies that materially reduced exposure? • How do you benchmark whether your current rate is fair for the industry risk profile?

1 Like

7 Replies

107 Views

Replies

Reply by a searcher
in Zwolle, Nederland

We changed our internal rules, to prevent accessing for minor things. Sometimes its better to pay from company then from insurance, that idea. Sometimes also workers pay with the company, for things not necessairy, but more preventive. Quotes from other companies offering this will help, I get them by asking peer entrepreneurs where they have located this, if they are happy etc. Then contact detaiks are often direct hit.

Reply by a searcher
from Dominican University in Tampa, FL, USA

Just wrapping up my annual audit over here. A few things to recommend: 1. Segment your payroll by job duties. Admin and Sales payroll will be less per $100 than Services. Make sure your agent and insurance knows the amount by group. 2. Set up a Google Alert or do a search for your State's announcements on rate changes. In 2026, FL will drop by 7% (https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2025/nov/17/florida-workers-comp-rates-fall/) 3. Ask directly what safety training programs qualify for discounts. In my industry I can get a discount for things like buying slip-resistant shoes from Shoes for Crews for example. 4. Every sub you use get a W9 and Cert. of Insurance and keep on file. During your audit you will need this to exclude what you pay them. 5. Shop around at least once a year. Your payroll provider will probably have their own insurance product, too.

+5 more replies.

Join the discussion