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Insurance Premiums for Worker's Compensation Continue to Decline

Insurance Rates Covering On-the-Job Injuries Drop for 10th Year in a Row

MADISON – Wisconsin companies on average will pay 3.2% less in worker's compensation insurance rates starting Oct. 1, 2025, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) announced today with the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI).

The lower rates reflect Wisconsin employers' attention to workplace safety for the benefit of workers and employers alike. The 2025 rate decrease, approved by OCI, marks the tenth year in a row worker's compensation insurance premiums have declined in Wisconsin. The actual premiums vary by employer based on factors such as injury risk exposure.

"Workers deserve to feel safe and protected in the workplace, and strong workplace safety practices across Wisconsin help make that possible," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "Our state is committed to fostering a culture of fairness and safety in the workplace – a commitment which benefits workers, their families, and communities while supporting the competitiveness of employers in our state."

Worker's compensation insurance rates are adjusted annually by a committee of actuaries from members of the Wisconsin Compensation Rating Bureau. This independent body examines and selects the methodology and trends that produce the proposed rate adjustment, which is then reviewed and approved by the Wisconsin Commissioner of Insurance. While the overall rate level will decrease by 3.2%, the impact on policyholders will vary based on specific circumstances.

"Employers doing business in Wisconsin can count on our competitive insurance marketplace for affordable, high-quality workers compensation coverage to keep their business and employees safe," said Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek.

DWD's Worker's Compensation Division (WCD) administers the state's worker's compensation program through a collaboration with WCRB, OCI, Self-Insurers Council and the Worker's Compensation Advisory Council, which is composed of representatives from management and labor and recommends worker's compensation law changes. Most employers in Wisconsin are legally required to have worker's compensation insurance policies.

Customers with questions about the law may contact DWD's Worker's Compensation Division by calling 608-266-1340 or visiting the DWD website. For questions about the rate development process, contact the WCRB at 262-796-4540 or online.

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ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.