NFIB

What is Group Rating?
Group Rating is an Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation approved program that pools together employers in similar industries with good safety records, to potentially achieve lower premiums than they could individually.

Who is eligible?
Most small-to-medium-sized businesses in Ohio with a good actual-to-expected loss ratio should qualify for the group premium discount.

How much can the program save me?
On average, qualifying companies may save up to 77 percent (maximum allowable by the BWC in 2009) in workers' compensation costs. In addition, the program offers loss prevention services and handles the management of all workers' compensation claims.

When may I join?
Companies are evaluated for the NFIB/Ohio Group Rating Program starting in July of 2008 and invitations to join begin in the fall. Eligible companies are invited to join in the fall of 2008. The reduced group rate becomes effective the following July 1, 2009.

How do I sign up?
Call 866-780-NFIB (6342). An authorized NFIB Group Rating Program representative will be able to assist you in obtaining a verbal evaluation of your company's eligibility.

What services are included to help manage my WC costs?

• Verification of the group premium discount rates assigned by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation
• A toll-free help line is available to assist group rating members in workers' compensation and unemployment claim issues and cost controls
• Assistance in preparing payroll reports
• Assistance in resolving safety-related issues

Can I get help in reviewing my classification status?
The NFIB/Ohio Group Rating Program also provides assistance to employers (and their accountants and lawyers) who are setting up or expanding new companies to help ensure that the best rate classification is assigned for the employer and to maintain eligibility in the group.

Seminars and newsletters
Seminars on workers' compensation, unemployment compensation, managed-care organizations and safety-related issues are conducted to assist employers. SafetyVision and Resource newsletters are issued quarterly to provide you with the latest updates and key information.

Additional questions?
Please call the NFIB/Ohio Employer Consultation Line at 866-780-NFIB (6342) if you have questions or e-mail NFIB@ccitpa.com for clarification on the evaluation and enrollment process.   

Benefits to you

• Ability to combine like workers' comp experiences and rate calculations to take advantage of premium savings of up to 77 percent (maximum allowable by BWC)
• Assistance in the development of safety programs designed to reduce injuries and the associated costs
• Hearing attendance scheduled before the Ohio Industrial Commission and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
• NFIB Group Rating Legal-Defense Program to provide representation by Bricker & Eckler LLP against certain workers' compensation claims that have a significant negative impact on the group as determined by the NFIB claims review process
• Reports summarizing claims activities and financial results
• Assist employers to lessen the cost impact of serious claims, when possible
• Safety consulting provided for NFIB/Ohio Group Rating members
• Full unemployment compensation claims management, including UC tax rate reviews, hearing representation with the employer, guidance on hearing notices and claim forms, and toll-free phone consultation
• For more, refer to Service Highlights