Question 1

What is a WCIRB class code?

Accepted Answer

A WCIRB (Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau) class code is a 4-digit number that categorizes your job duties for workers' compensation insurance. Each code has a base rate that reflects the risk level of that job. Different class codes have different rates—roofers pay more than electricians because roofing is higher-risk.

Question 2

How do I find my class code?

Accepted Answer

Your class code is listed on your workers' compensation insurance policy or renewal quote. You can also ask your insurance broker or check your CSLB license record. If you have multiple job duties, you may have multiple class codes.

Question 3

Can I change my class code?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if your job duties change or were misclassified. You can request a reclassification from your insurance company. Reclassifying to a lower-risk code can save 10–20% on your premium. For example, if you move from roofing (5403) to general contracting (5606), your rate drops significantly.

Question 4

What's the difference between class codes?

Accepted Answer

Each class code has a different base rate based on injury risk. Roofers (5403) have a rate of ~0.85 per $100 of payroll. Electricians (5190) have a rate of ~0.45. Handymen (9015) have a rate of ~0.38. The rate is multiplied by your payroll and X-Mod to calculate your total premium.

Question 5

How is the class code rate calculated?

Accepted Answer

WCIRB analyzes historical claims data for each job category. They calculate the average cost of claims per $100 of payroll. This becomes the base rate. Rates are updated annually based on new claims data. Higher-risk jobs (roofers, tree trimmers) have higher rates.

Question 6

Can I have multiple class codes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have employees doing different job duties, you can have multiple class codes. For example, a general contractor with both office staff and field workers might have codes 5606 (field) and 8810 (office). Each code is rated separately.

Question 7

What's the lowest class code rate?

Accepted Answer

Office work (code 8810) typically has the lowest rate (~0.10–0.15 per $100 payroll). Handymen (9015) and painters (5474) are also low-risk. High-risk codes include roofers (5403), tree trimmers, and heavy equipment operators.

Question 8

How do I lower my class code rate?

Accepted Answer

You can't lower the base rate (set by WCIRB), but you can: (1) Reclassify to a lower-risk code if your duties change, (2) Improve your X-Mod through safety programs, (3) Hire more office staff (lower-risk code), (4) Implement loss prevention to reduce claims.

Question 9

What's the highest class code rate?

Accepted Answer

High-risk codes include roofers (5403, ~0.85), tree trimmers (~1.20), and heavy equipment operators (~1.10). These rates reflect the high frequency and severity of injuries in these occupations.

Question 10

How often do class code rates change?

Accepted Answer

WCIRB updates class code rates annually, typically effective July 1. Rates are based on the most recent 3 years of claims data. You'll see the new rate on your insurance renewal quote.

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