Is Washington’s workers’ comp system among the highest in benefits paid and insurance premium rates?
Washington’s total benefits per $100 of wages are in the top one-third in the country based on the 2007 National Academy of Social Insurance study, while its premium rates for employers insured by L&I – based on the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Premium Rate Ranking – were in the lowest third in the nation in 2008. This is possible because administrative costs at L&I are low and L&I is a non-profit, state-run insurance company. Premium Rate Ranking Premiums per $100 of Payroll Q: How do Washington’s workers’ comp rates compare with rates from other states? A: It is difficult to compare workers’ compensation rates state by state, particularly for Washington, which assesses its insurance premiums based on hours worked rather than by payroll. Workers’ comp systems have many other differences, too, such as different hazards workers are exposed to, benefits they are entitled to legislatively, and whether or not workers pay part of the premium. Nevertheless, most insurance professionals rely
