Workers' Comp Insurance for Veterinarians Cost | 2025
Workers' compensation insurance cost for veterinarians in 2025 averages $0.93 per $100 of payroll. This coverage provides benefits for employees injured on the job and shields the veterinary practice from potential lawsuits.
What is Workers' Comp Premium for Veterinarians based on?
Industry Risk
The cost of workers' comp insurance varies widely between industries because some jobs are riskier than others. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) assigns each job a four-digit class code, similar to a barcode, to use as a refence information on each job role. Each code also contains a risk rate on how likely it is for workers to get injured and the severity of those injuries, using industry-wide data.
Veterinarians face moderate risk levels. Common injuries include animal bites, strains from lifting animals, and slips in wet areas of the clinic. For more details, check out our guide to Workers Comp Codes for Veterinary.
Payroll
Larger practices with higher payrolls pay more for workers' comp insurance, but the per-employee rate remains consistent.
Claims History
A strong safety record keeps costs low. Frequent claims for injuries like bites or back strain may increase your premiums.
How are Veterinarian Workers' Comp Premiums calculated?
Here’s the formula to calculate your workers' comp premium:
Payroll divided by 100 x rate = Premium
Step 1: Calculate the Payroll
Determine the total annual payroll for all veterinary employees.
If annual figures are unavailable, calculate each employee's hourly rate by multiplying it by weekly hours and then multiplying that by the number of weeks worked in a year.
Step 2: Find your Rate
Find the workers' comp rate for your industry and state:
- Use the national average rate for veterinarians, which is $0.93 per $100 of payroll.
- Check your policy for more specific rate information.
Let’s work through an example together:
Let’s say you own a small veterinary practice. You’re one of three veterinarians, but you choose to exclude yourself from coverage as the owner. Your team includes two additional full-time veterinarians, three veterinary technicians, and one full-time receptionist. Your team needs to be covered by a workers' compensation insurance for veterinarians policy.
Here’s the formula: (bold) Payroll divided by 100 x rate = Premium
Step 1: Calculate Payroll
We need to calculate the annual payroll for each employee type:
The two full-time veterinarians each earn $80/hour. Multiply that by 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year for an annual payroll of $165,527 each. For two veterinarians, that’s $331,054.
Each veterinary technician earns $22/hour. Multiply that by 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year for an annual payroll of $45,144. For three veterinary technicians, that’s $135,432.
The receptionist earns $19/hour. Multiply that by 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year for an annual payroll of $39,520.
Step 2: Determine Rates
For a veterinary practice:
Veterinarians and technicians are classified under class code 8831. The rate in Louisiana is $0.88.
Receptionists fall under class code 8810. The rate in Louisiana is $0.16.
Note: Receptionists qualify for class code 8810 only if they have absolutely no exposure to any potential harm from the animals.
Step 3: Apply the Formula
Let’s calculate the workers' comp premium for the practice:
Class Code 8831: Veterinarians and technicians payroll = $331,054 (veterinarians) + $135,432 (technicians) = $466,486
Premium: $466,486 ÷ 100 x $0.88 = $4,106
Class Code 8810: Receptionist payroll = $39,520
Premium: $39,520 ÷ 100 x $0.16 = $63
Total Premium: $4,106 + $63 = $4,169 annual premium
Monthly Premium
$348 monthly premium
Remember, this calculation is a starting point. Your actual premium may vary based on factors like your experience modification rate, specific state regulations, and additional fees or taxes.
Annual Cost of Workers' Comp for Veterinary Technicians (8831)
Here’s a breakdown of the annual premium for a full-time veterinary technician based on rates from several states.
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Disclaimer: All data has been derived by combining ZipRecruiter national payroll averages per industry with average rates of a national carrier partner. Figures are for illustrative purposes only and do not include taxes or additional fees.
Does it matter where I buy a Policy from?
Absolutely! Your team works with unpredictable animals and faces unique risks. Choosing the right policy can make all the difference.
Look for these qualities in an insurer:
- Reputation: Reliable providers ensure swift claims handling.
- Financial Resources: Choose a financially stable insurer for peace of mind.
- Customer Support: Excellent service is critical for navigating claims smoothly.
- Veterinary Expertise: A provider with experience in your field will better address your needs.
What does Workers' Comp Insurance cover for Veterinarians?
A workers’ comp policy for veterinary practices provides:
- Medical Expenses: covers treatment for illness or injury on the job
- Lost Wages: Compensates for lost income during recovery periods
- Death Benefits: Offers financial support to families in the event of a fatal incident
- Legal Protection: Protects your veterinary clinic from lawsuits by injured employees
How can I make Workers' Comp cheaper?
Veterinarians can take the following steps to reduce workers' comp costs:
Create a Safety Program
A strong safety program is essential for preventing common veterinary injuries, such as animal bites, scratches, and sprains. Consider these elements:
- Train employees in proper animal restraint techniques to minimize bites and scratches.
- Use ergonomic practices, like adjustable tables and frequent posture changes, to prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
- Keep walkways dry and clutter-free to avoid slips and falls.
- Ensure employees wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes for additional protection.
- Regularly conduct safety audits to identify and address potential hazards.
Ask about Discounts
Inquire with your insurance company about discounts for implementing robust safety protocols and maintaining a low claims history. Sharing your proactive safety measures can lead to reduced premiums.
Proper Classification
Ensure that all workers, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and clerical staff, are accurately classified under the correct workers' comp codes. Misclassification can lead to higher premiums or compliance issues.
Only Hire Insured 1099 Contractors
Veterinary practices may occasionally work with 1099 contractors, such as groomers, mobile ultrasound technicians, or specialists for specific procedures. Ensure that all 1099 contractors provide Certificates of Insurance (COIs) to demonstrate that they carry their own workers' comp coverage. This prevents your practice from being held liable for their claims.
Curious about Savings?
See how much you can save on workers’ comp for your veterinary clinic! Use our online tool for a fast and accurate quote tailored to your needs.
Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal or insurance advice. Laws and regulations regarding workers' compensation insurance are complex and vary by state and by specific circumstances. Therefore, readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified legal or insurance professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem they might have.
Mordechai Kamenetsky, co-founder and lead agent of Kickstand, is recognized as an expert in workers' compensation. He is passionate about helping small businesses manage risks and lower their workers' comp costs. In his articles, he educates readers and clients on the intricacies of workers' comp insurance.
Legally, workers’ comp is not needed for 1099 employees. However, if the employee lacks coverage, you may be held liable in case of injury. Also, if a state or federal authority determines your 1099 workers are not in fact independent contractors, they must be reclassified as employees. That also means you’re required to provide them with workers’ compensation insurance.
