Wisconsin’s statewide workers’ compensation insurance rate level decreased by an average 1.97%, effective October 1, 2026. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) estimates the change will save $36 million across policies over the coming year. Those are statewide figures—not a promise that any particular business’s premium will drop by 1.97%.
What changed on October 1, 2026?
DWD announced the average rate-level decrease with the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) on October 1, 2026. DWD describes it as Wisconsin’s 11th consecutive annual decline and estimates $36 million in savings for policies over the coming year. The estimate applies across policies, not as a guaranteed saving for each employer. DWD’s October 1 announcement provides the figures.
The change is to the statewide insurance rate level. It does not mean every business will receive a premium reduction of the same size: actual premiums vary by employer, including according to injury-risk exposure. OCI also cautions that a rate filing change does not necessarily match what an individual business pays. OCI’s policy forms and rate filings page explains that distinction.
Will my Wisconsin business pay less for workers’ comp?
Possibly, but the statewide average cannot tell you what your business will pay. Your premium depends on your business-specific circumstances, and the announcement does not provide enough information to calculate an individual renewal. Check the renewal offer from your insurer or ask your broker to explain how the proposed premium compares with your current policy.
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When comparing options, look beyond the headline price. OCI advises considering the company and policy, including coverage terms and the service relevant to your business. Compare quotes using your actual classifications and payroll; this announcement does not rank insurers or establish which one is best for a particular employer. See OCI’s guidance on insurance filings.
How does Wisconsin set the rate adjustment?
DWD says a committee of actuaries from members of the Wisconsin Compensation Rating Bureau (WCRB) examines and selects the methodology and trends used to develop a proposed annual adjustment. OCI reviews and approves the proposal. OCI approved the 2026 decrease, according to DWD’s announcement.
The announcement does not publish the underlying actuarial analysis or the change by industry classification. It therefore does not support attributing this year’s result to a particular cause or predicting the movement for a specific type of employer.
How does the 2026 decrease compare with recent years?
| Effective date | Average statewide rate-level decrease | DWD’s description |
|---|---|---|
| October 1, 2026 | 1.97% | 11th consecutive annual decline; DWD estimates $36 million in savings for policies over the coming year. DWD, October 1, 2026 |
| October 1, 2025 | 3.2% | 10th consecutive annual decline. DWD, August 12, 2025 |
| October 1, 2024 | 10.5% | 9th consecutive annual decline. DWD, July 31, 2024 |
The percentages describe statewide average rate-level changes, not a cumulative reduction on an individual employer’s invoices. The figures also do not, by themselves, explain the actuarial reasons for each year’s result.
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Is this a reduction in workers’ compensation benefits?
No. The October 1, 2026 change concerns insurance rates. DWD separately reports that certain statutory workers’ compensation benefit changes—including changes to maximum rates for permanent partial disability—took effect April 1, 2026. These are distinct changes on different dates. See DWD Insurance Letter 552.
Who must carry workers’ compensation insurance?
DWD says most Wisconsin employers are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. The rate announcement does not list every exception or establish whether a particular business must have coverage. Employers with a coverage question can contact DWD’s Workers’ Compensation Division.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What state officials said
DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said, “Workplaces that are fair, just and safe support the success of working families and give Wisconsin employers a competitive edge in recruitment and retention.” Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek said, “As we celebrate another year of rate decreases, Wisconsin employers can continue to count on our competitive insurance marketplace for affordable, high-quality coverage for their business and employees.” Both statements appeared in the October 1, 2026 DWD announcement.
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