Wisconsin businesses will see another reduction in worker’s compensation insurance costs beginning October 1, 2025, marking the tenth straight year of rate decreases, according to an announcement from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) and the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI).

 

The 3.2% average statewide decrease reflects continued improvements in workplace safety and a strong commitment by employers to injury prevention. While the reduction is applied broadly, individual premiums will vary depending on a company’s specific class codes and risk profile.

 

“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.”

 

Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek emphasized the strength of the state’s competitive insurance marketplace: “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.”

 

Local insurance experts are also noting the broader implications of this ongoing trend. Nick Arnoldy, Owner and Broker at Marshfield Insurance, said this latest reduction is part of a multi-year pattern.

 

“It’s been a trend for about the last three years where companies are seeing reductions in most class codes,” Arnoldy said. “The severity of claims hasn’t really changed, but the frequency has gone down, which is great because it offsets the trend of increasing auto and property insurance rates. In some cases, worker’s comp is balancing out those other changes, so it’s been very helpful for consumers.”

 

The annual rate adjustments are determined by a committee of actuaries with the Wisconsin Compensation Rating Bureau (WCRB) and reviewed by the Wisconsin Commissioner of Insurance. The changes reflect statewide data on workplace injuries and claim trends.

 

Worker’s compensation insurance is mandatory for most Wisconsin employers. For more information about the program, visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website or contact the DWD Worker’s Compensation Division at 608-266-1340.