Private employers' premium rates drop 6 percent

COLUMBUS — Ohio’s private employers are paying nearly $60 million less in workers’ compensation insurance premiums to the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation thanks to a rate cut that went into effect on July 1, 2025.

This 6% rate reduction reflects BWC's ongoing trend of decreasing premium rates. Since 2019, BWC's overall reduction in private employers' rates has dropped by 50% and 70% since 2011.

“Making Ohio the best place to work starts with workplace safety,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “This rate reduction is the result of Ohio employers’ continued dedication and focus on safety.”

Overall, the average rate levels for the 258,000 private and public Ohio employers in the BWC system are at their lowest in over 60 years.

“We are proud to pass these savings on to employers through another rate reduction,” said Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Administrator/CEO Stephanie McCloud. “Ohio's businesses continue to keep workplace safety first, and the results speak for themselves year after year.”

The 6% rate cut represents a statewide average. The actual premium change for an individual employer will differ based on multiple factors, including employer type or classification, payroll levels, recent claims history and their participation in various BWC programs.

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