North Carolina runs its rating through the North Carolina Rate Bureau (NCRB), which files advisory loss costs and assigned-risk rates approved by the Insurance Commissioner. Carriers apply their own multipliers to the loss costs, so the published tables anchor the market while the carrier decision sets your price.

The current rate environment in North Carolina

The Commissioner approved an average 7.8% loss cost decrease effective April 1, 2026 (NCRB Circular C-25-11; federal classifications fell 12.8%). North Carolina employers renewing after that date should see the cut reflected — and should shop it if they don’t.

Where to find official North Carolina rate data

NCRB posts the complete per-class loss cost and assigned-risk rate tables publicly in its rate filings section (current values effective April 1, 2026). Loss costs cover expected claims only — your quote runs through a carrier multiplier, your experience mod, and credits, which is where multi-carrier comparison moves the number.

What determines your North Carolina premium

• Class codes — every job type carries its own rate; misclassification is the most common cause of overpayment
• Payroll — premium is calculated per $100 of payroll, by class
• Experience mod — your claims history versus similar businesses scales the whole premium up or down
• Carrier pricing — carriers file multipliers over NCRB loss costs; the assigned-risk plan prices well above voluntary market — staying voluntary is the first savings
• Credits and programs — safety programs, dividend plans, and pay-as-you-go options move the net cost

How to get the best rate in North Carolina

The rate tables are only the starting point: the carrier you land with, the accuracy of your class codes, and how your payroll is reported decide what you actually pay. We quote North Carolina businesses across a dozen A-rated markets and show you the comparison — including pay-as-you-go billing that matches premium to actual payroll. See our North Carolina workers’ comp guide and North Carolina forms & resources for the rest of the picture.

North Carolina rate FAQs

Did North Carolina workers’ comp rates go down for 2026?

Yes — the Insurance Commissioner approved an average 7.8% decrease in loss costs effective April 1, 2026 (NCRB Circular C-25-11), with federal classifications down 12.8%.

Who sets workers’ comp rates in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Rate Bureau files advisory loss costs and assigned-risk rates, approved by the Commissioner of Insurance; carriers apply their own multipliers for final pricing.

How many employees require workers’ comp in North Carolina?

Businesses with three or more employees are generally covered by the Act — and general contractors routinely require subs to carry coverage regardless of headcount. We confirm your obligation when we quote.