Missouri workers' compensation rates for 2019 are the premiums employers pay to insure employees against work‑related injuries and illnesses. Rates vary by job classification, payroll size, and experience rating, and are set by the Missouri Workers' Compensation Commission (MWCC). Below is a concise guide that explains the 2019 rate structure, how premiums are calculated, and what factors influence changes.
- How Missouri Sets Workers' Compensation Rates
- 2019 Base Rates by Major Classification
- Calculating the Premium
- Experience Modification Factor (EMF)
- Key Differences in 2019 Compared to Prior Years
- Resources for Employers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do rates differ by county?
- Can an employer appeal a rate?
- What happens after 2019?
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How Missouri Sets Workers' Compensation Rates
Each year the MWCC reviews industry loss data, medical cost trends, and claim frequency to set classification rates. Employers are assigned a classification code (e.g., 8810 for clerical office work) and a base rate per $100 of payroll. The final premium is the product of the base rate, the employer's payroll, and any experience modification factor.
2019 Base Rates by Major Classification
| Classification Code | Job Description | Base Rate (per $100 payroll) |
|---|---|---|
| 8810 | Clerical Office Employees | $0.55 |
| 8742 | Construction – Laborers | $2.73 |
| 8734 | Construction – Carpenters | $2.45 |
| 8746 | Construction – Electricians | $2.92 |
| 8748 | Construction – Plumbers | $2.81 |
Calculating the Premium
The formula for a 2019 premium is:
- Premium = (Base Rate ÷ 100) × Payroll × Experience Modifier
Example: A plumbing contractor (8748) with $250,000 payroll and an experience modifier of 1.05 would pay:
- ($2.81 ÷ 100) × $250,000 × 1.05 = $7,361.25
Experience Modification Factor (EMF)
The EMF reflects an employer's claim history relative to the industry average. An EMF < 1.0 reduces premiums, while > 1.0 increases them. In 2019, the MWCC published EMF ranges from 0.70 to 2.50, depending on loss experience.
Key Differences in 2019 Compared to Prior Years
Compared with 2018, the MWCC adjusted several rates upward due to rising medical costs:
- Construction electricians (8746) increased 6%.
- General labor (8810) saw a modest 2% rise.
These changes were the most notable adjustments for 2019.
Resources for Employers
Employers can verify their exact rate and EMF through the MWCC's online portal or by contacting their insurance carrier. The MWCC also offers a rate lookup tool that lets users input classification codes and payroll to generate a premium estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do rates differ by county?
No. Missouri applies a uniform state rate; however, local insurance carriers may add administrative fees.
Can an employer appeal a rate?
Yes. Employers may request a hearing before the MWCC if they believe their classification or EMF is inaccurate.
What happens after 2019?
Rates are reviewed annually. For 2020, the MWCC announced further adjustments reflecting continued medical cost inflation.