How is the premium for workers' compensation insurance often calculated?

The premium for workers' compensation insurance is commonly calculated based on a variable rate that takes into account both payroll and the specific risk classification of the business. This means that the total payroll of the company and the nature of its industry—or the level of risk associated with the work being performed—are significant factors in determining the premium amount.

A variable rate structure allows the insurance premiums to fluctuate in accordance with changes in payroll, which can be especially relevant for businesses with seasonal fluctuations or varying work levels. Additionally, different industries have different levels of risk associated with their operations, which further influences the classification rates applied to calculate premiums. High-risk industries may face higher premiums, while those in lower-risk categories may have reduced rates.

This approach ensures that the insurance costs are more closely aligned with the actual risk exposure of the business rather than applying a uniform or fixed assessment that does not reflect variations in employee numbers or the nature of the work being performed.