Why a Standard Workers’ Comp Policy Beats the Minnesota Assigned Risk Pool

When it comes to protecting your employees and your business in Minnesota, workers’ compensation insurance isn’t optional — it’s the law if you have employees. But not all workers’ comp policies are created equal. Many Minnesota businesses are unaware of the significant difference between having a standard market policy and being assigned to the state’s risk pool.

At Insuring Minnesota, we help businesses avoid the expensive pitfalls of the assigned risk plan. Here’s why a standard policy is a much better choice:

1. Lower Premiums

Insurance companies in the standard market compete for your business. Competition is excellent; the insurance companies will fight for your business. That means lower rates, plus opportunities for credits, schedule rating discounts, and even dividend programs for safe companies. The Minnesota assigned risk pool? It’s more expensive and offers zero flexibility.

2. Better Coverage Options

A standard policy can be customized to your specific industry—contractors, restaurants, cannabis, breweries, and more. The state pool only provides bare-bones coverage that meets minimum requirements.

3. Stronger Claims Support

Standard market carriers usually offer faster claims handling, nurse case managers, and return-to-work programs. These initiatives are designed to keep your employees healthy and reduce your long-term costs. With the assigned risk pool, claims service tends to be slower and less personal.

4. Safety & Loss Control Resources

Many standard carriers offer loss control programs, safety training, informative websites, and on-site consultation services. These services help you reduce workplace injuries and keep your premiums lower over time. You won’t find these extras in the Minnesota Assigned Risk Pool.

5. Long-Term Savings

Having a standard market policy makes it easier to improve your Experience Mod, expand your business, and control costs as you grow. The Minnesota assigned risk pool, by contrast, is a last-resort option—more difficult to exit and increasingly costly year after year.

✅ What is the Bottom Line:
The Minnesota Assigned Risk Pool (MWCIA – Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Insurers Association) should always be your last option. With a standard workers’ comp policy, you get lower premiums, stronger claims support, more resources, and room to grow.

At Insuring Minnesota, we’ll shop over 50 top-rated carriers to make sure you never get stuck in the pool.

📞 Call us today at 952-222-8073 and let’s talk about building a workers’ comp program that saves you money and protects your people.

“Don’t get stuck in the pool—swim with the pros at Insuring Minnesota!”