$10 million in savings now in effect for Ohio employers

COLUMBUS— Ohio’s private employers are now paying approximately $10 million less in workers’ compensation premiums, the result of another rate reduction under the direction of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.

In February, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors approved a 1% rate cut for private employers, which took effect July 1, 2026. This change follows another 1% rate cut for Ohio’s public employers that became effective Jan. 1, 2026, resulting in $2 million in savings.

“This reduction is a reflection of Ohio’s focus on workplace safety,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “The hard work and dedication that Ohio employers put into workplace safety is what has allowed us to reduce rates for the last seven years.”

Ohio’s 245,000 private and public employers are already experiencing the lowest average rate levels in over 65 years. Since taking office in 2019, Governor DeWine and BWC have reduced private employer rates by 50%.

“Our rates in Ohio are among the lowest in the country,” said BWC Administrator Stephanie McCloud. “This reduction represents this administration’s long-standing commitment to Ohio’s employers.”

The 1% rate cut represents an average statewide premium change, including administrative costs. The actual premium paid by individual private employers depends on several factors, including the expected future claims costs in their industry, their company’s recent claims history, and their participation in various BWC programs.

More news and information available at https://info.bwc.ohio.gov/news-and-events