Experience Modifier (EMR / Mod)

A multiplier on workers’ comp premium based on your claims history vs peers. Below 1.0 = discount; above = surcharge.

The experience modifier is a number that adjusts your workers’ compensation premium up or down based on how your claims history compares to other businesses like yours.

A mod of 1.0 is average. Below 1.0 earns a credit (you’ve had fewer or smaller claims than expected); above 1.0 is a surcharge. Because it multiplies your entire comp premium, even a small change moves real money — and a high mod can disqualify you from bidding certain jobs.

Frequent small claims hurt the mod more than a single large one, so the biggest levers are workplace safety and getting injured employees back to work quickly on light duty.

This is a friendly general explanation, not legal or policy language. Exact coverage depends on your policy, carrier, and state. 🤝

Written and reviewed by the We Insure Things team — licensed independent insurance agents. Last reviewed July 23, 2026. Questions? Ask a licensed agent.