2009 Rate Increase

Date: January 01, 2009

On September 17, 2008, the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) announced a proposal to increase workers' compensation rates by three percent in 2009. The increase raises average premiums by "just under two cents per hour worked," according to a Department news release, and results in an additional $57 million in revenue for the state.

L&I believes the adjustment is in keeping with a 2005 ruling by the Legislature, which instructed the Department to avoid wide swings in workers' compensation rates. The news release explains, "Individual employers could see their rates go up or down, depending on their recent claim history and any changes in the frequency and cost of claims in their industry." Employers will be receiving a copy of the proposed 2009 rate tables by industry which is also available online.

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