Workers’ comp for restaurants is priced per $100 of payroll under 9082 (table service) or 9083 (fast food/counter service). many small restaurants land in the low-to-mid single digits per $100 of payroll depending on state and mod — but your state, carrier, and experience mod move the number substantially. Get multiple quotes within minutes to see your real rate.

What drives the cost

In this industry, kitchen burns and cuts drive claims; alcohol service, late hours, and delivery drivers all move the rate; high turnover makes payroll reporting hygiene matter. Layer on your experience mod — the multiplier your claims history earns — and two identical payrolls can pay very different premiums.

How to pay less

• Verify class codes — see 9083 and 9082 — and carve out payroll that qualifies for lower-rated classes
• Consider pay-as-you-go billing so premium tracks actual payroll instead of estimates
• Document safety practices — they pay off at renewal and in your mod
• Compare carriers — appetite for this industry varies more than owners expect

The full insurance picture

Workers’ comp is one piece — for the complete package (liability, property, and the rest), our sister site USRestaurantInsure.com handles this industry end to end. And see our dedicated guide: workers’ comp for restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

What class code applies to restaurants?

Typically 9082 (table service) or 9083 (fast food/counter service). Classification accuracy is the single biggest controllable factor in what you pay.

Can I lower my premium mid-term?

Sometimes — misclassifications can be corrected, and pay-as-you-go conversion helps cash flow immediately. The bigger savings usually come at renewal with a multi-carrier remarket.

Want your actual number? Get multiple quotes within minutes.