Workers’ Compensation Rates Increase

After a series of public hearings held across the state during the month of October, the Department of Labor & Industries will move forward with plans to increase premiums for workers’ compensation insurance, on average, 3 percent in 2009, resulting in a premium increase of approximately 2 cents per hour worked.

Calculations based on anticipated claims and higher medical costs pointed to the need for a 6.3 percent premium increase generating $119 million. Instead, it was decided to implement a 3 percent increase generating $57 million, with L&I reserves absorbing the balance. Individual employers could see their rates go up or down, depending on their recent claims history and any changes in the frequency and cost of claims in their industry.

Increases for relevant city classification include:

• 2%: 0803, Cities & Towns – All Other Employees
• 5%: 5305, Cities – Office and Administrative Employees
• 7%: 6904, Fire Fighters
• 4%: 6905, Law Enforcement

Tables showing the new rates can be found on the L&I website at www.lni.wa.gov/ClaimsIns/Insurance/RatesRisk/Check/RatesHistory/default.asp, then click on 2009 rate tables.

 
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