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WCIRB Releases 2022 State of the California Workers’ Compensation Insurance System Report

The Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau of California (WCIRB) has released its 2022 State of the System. This report highlights key metrics of the California workers’ compensation system, including the latest trends on rates, market characteristics and profitability.

To access the full report, visit the Research section of the WCIRB website or go to the following link:

This annual report is developed to provide workers’ compensation professionals with a comprehensive view of California’s workers’ compensation system based on the latest available information. Top learnings from the report include:

  • California workers’ compensation premium levels dropped sharply in 2020 due to continued insurer rate decreases and the pandemic-related economic slowdown, while in 2021 the premium level was relatively flat. Premiums are forecast to increase in 2022 with economic recovery and the impact of insurer rate decreases moderating.
  • The insurance market remains stable and non-concentrated. Insurer charged rates continue to decrease and are at a 50-year low.
  • The frequency of non-COVID-19 indemnity claims rose sharply in 2021. The share of indemnity claims involving cumulative trauma is also rising.
  • With declining premium rates, increasing claim frequency and an influx of COVID-19 claims, the 112 percent projected combined ratio for accident year 2021 is the highest in a decade.
August 11, 2022