History of Retro
Since 1980, Washington State has allowed qualifying employers to receive refunds on their Workers' Compensation premiums through the Retrospective Rating Program. WMC assists businesses in preventing on-the-job injuries, and, when injuries occur, WMC helps businesses manage claims to ensure employees are able to return to work as quickly as possible. This results in lower premiums and higher refunds under the Retro program.

Qualifying for a Retro Refund
WMC members qualify for Retro Refunds when premiums paid to L&I exceed the losses incurred due to injured workers' claims. Over the last 5 years the WMC group refund has averaged over 30.7%. Additionally, through our merit rated distribution plan, some companies have earned as much as a 54% return on their workers comp premiums. Many members' premiums have been reduced by an average of 25%.

The Power of Pooling
Members of WMC represent some of the most safety-conscious enterprises in the state. The result of "pooling" with other like-minded businesses is less exposure to large claims and greater refunds for members. According to L&I, "employers in group retro (on the whole) have outperformed those enrolled on their own."