A better fit for the way you do business

Payroll can change a lot over the course of a year. You might add employees for a busy season, staff up for a new project, or simply end up somewhere different than you expected.

Pay-As-You-Go billing, powered by SmartPay®, helps your workers’ compensation payments keep pace. Instead of starting with an estimated payroll for the year, payroll is reported throughout the policy term and premium is calculated accordingly, helping reduce large upfront payments and unexpected audit adjustments.

And nothing about your policy changes. You get the same coverage and rates—just a different way to pay.

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How Pay-As-You-Go works

1. Report your payroll
Payroll is reported each pay period or monthly, either through your payroll provider or by self-reporting.

2. We calculate your premium
Your workers’ compensation premium is calculated using your reported payroll—not an estimate made at the beginning of the policy term.

3. Make your payment
Payment is automatically withdrawn by ACH or approved credit card.*

4. Repeat throughout the policy term
As your payroll changes throughout the year, your premium payments adjust with it. Policies remain subject to audit, and regular payroll reporting and premium payments are required to maintain coverage.

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A payment option that keeps up with your business

Whether payroll goes up, down or somewhere in between, Pay-As-You-Go helps keep your workers’ compensation payments closer to what’s actually happening in your business.

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Pay less upfront

No deposit premium is required, so you can keep more cash in your business instead of tying it up in an upfront payment.
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Match premium to payroll

Pay based on the payroll you actually have—not what you estimated months ago.
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Improve cash flow

Spread premium payments throughout the policy term and keep them better aligned with your business activity.
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Reduce audit surprises

Regular payroll reporting can help minimize the gap between the premium you’ve paid and what you owe at audit.

Is Pay-As-You-Go a good fit for your business?

Pay-As-You-Go can be especially helpful for businesses with payroll that changes throughout the year, including:

  • Construction and contracting businesses with project-based staffing
  • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled trades
  • Landscaping, roofing, and other seasonal businesses
  • Manufacturing and light industrial businesses with fluctuating labor needs
  • Service businesses that adjust staffing based on demand

Not sure if your business fits the list? Your independent agent can help you determine whether Pay-As-You-Go makes sense for you.

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Frequently asked questions

No. Your coverage and rates stay the same. Pay-As-You-Go simply changes how your premium is billed and paid.

Yes. Your policy is still subject to audit.

Payroll is generally reported each pay period or monthly, depending on your enrollment and reporting method.
Payroll can be reported through a participating payroll provider or by self-reporting.
Payments are automatically processed through ACH or an approved credit card. Credit or debit card payments may be subject to a convenience fee charged by the payment processor.

Eligibility requirements apply. Customers generally must:

  • Have at least one payroll-based class code
  • Meet the $1,000 minimum premium requirement
  • Have been in business for at least two years
  • Demonstrate a strong payment history
  • Report payroll regularly
  • Pay by ACH or approved credit card

Additional eligibility and underwriting considerations may apply.

* Credit or debit card payments may be subject to a convenience fee charged by the payment processor.