The state approved an average 22% reduction in workers’ compensation rates. These are loss cost reductions, rather than guaranteed reductions in the final premium. Actual savings depend on the insurer’s multiplier, payroll, experience modification, discounts, and fees. The new values apply to policies effective October 1, 2026 or later. nycirb.org.
Class 4299, the main commercial printing classification, received a 31.4% reduction—greater than the statewide average of 21.9%.
Here are the approved loss costs per $100 of payroll, for a number of Printing related class codes, comparing October 2025 with October 2026:
| Class code | Operation | Oct. 2025 | Oct. 2026 | Reduction |
| 4299 | Printing — all other employees | $1.354 | $0.929 | 31.4% |
| 4307 | Bookbinding | $1.534 | $0.979 | 36.2% |
| 4351 | Photoengraving | $1.502 | $1.122 | 25.3% |
| 8800 | Mailing or addressing companies | $1.640 | $1.304 | 20.5% |
| 8810 | Clerical office employees | $0.078 | $0.060 | 23.1% |
| 8742 | Outside salespersons | $0.158 | $0.116 | 26.6% |
Source: NYCIRB’s approved October 1, 2026 loss cost comparison. nycirb.org
NYS members – The PGCA Worker’s Compensation Safety Group delivers the best savings on this business expense, through upfront discounts and dividends at the end of the policy year. Read more here. For a quote, contact us or complete and return quote form.
Tim Freeman, President
Print & Graphic Communications Association
(716) 691-3211 | tim@printcommunications.org
