The Workers Compensation Board of Alberta has released its 2026 premium rate schedule. The province’s average employer premium will increase to $1.46 per $100 of assessable earnings, a modest rise of five cents compared to 2025.
While the average rate is increasing, many sectors will see little change. A total of 176 industries will either remain at the same rate or see a decrease, while 36 percent of industries will experience a rate increase above the provincial average. For small businesses that pay approximately $5,000 per year in premiums, this will translate to an estimated $15 per month increase.
Why Rates Are Changing
WCB sets annual premiums using three key principles: full funding, collective liability, and individual accountability. Rates must cover the projected cost of compensable injuries for the upcoming year, which includes medical care, wage loss benefits, and rehabilitation support.
Industry performance also influences rates. Each industry is assigned to a rate group based on historical claims costs. Strong safety performance helps keep premiums stable, while higher injury frequency or severity within a sector increases system costs and can raise rates.
Employers can influence their individual premiums through their own safety record. WCB’s experience rating adjusts employer contributions up or down based on company claims performance within their industry group.
How to Find Your 2026 Rate
WCB has published the full comparison table for 2026 premium rates by sector and industry category. Employers can review their specific rate group classification and compare rate changes from 2025. The full rate comparison document is available.
WCB have begun notifying employers of their individual 2026 premium rates. Additional details about the rate-setting process are available on the WCB website.
What This Means for Alberta’s Construction Industry
For Alberta’s construction employers, the 2026 rate update reinforces the importance of strong injury prevention practices and consistent return-to-work support. As the sector continues to operate near historically high employment levels, sustained safety performance will remain a defining factor in managing workers compensation costs.
ACA will continue to monitor rate impacts across construction-related classifications and advocate for clarity, fairness and transparency in WCB processes. Members with questions about their rate groups or experience rating are encouraged to reach out so we can help direct them to the appropriate resources.an industry that builds Alberta’s communities, institutions, and economy.