What is typically the basis for calculating workers compensation insurance premiums?

Workers' compensation insurance premiums are primarily calculated based on payroll. This is because the primary factor in determining a business's risk level and potential liabilities is closely tied to the amount of payroll, which reflects the number of employees and their associated wages. The more employees a business has, or the higher their salaries, the greater the potential payout for work-related injuries or illnesses that could arise.

Payroll serves as a direct measure of the risk because it aligns with the company's size and the likelihood of claims being made. This approach allows insurers to assess the risk more accurately based on the types of work performed and the associated rate classifications within the insurance market.

While other factors, such as claims history, may influence premium adjustments in certain instances, the foundational calculation rests on payroll data, which helps reflect the potential exposure to worker injuries and the corresponding risks involved.