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New Rules Will Lower E-Mod Rates in Nebraska. See if Yours is One of Them.

Starting in January 2027, Nebraska will allow net reporting on workers' comp deductible policies. Why does that matter to you? 

You can lower your Experience Modification Rate (EMR) without changing anything operationally. 

For the right employer, that's a direct path to a lower E-Mod — and be more competitive when bidding on large projects.

Carmen Andrade 2-1

$0

Cost to confirm eligibility under new rules

121

Years we've been serving Nebraska businesses

30 Minutes

is all you need to commit

 

Find out if you qualify for net reporting on your Workers' Compensation policy

Net reporting is where you take on a deductible on your workers' compensation policy. Everything you pay toward the deductible does not count as losses against your EMR. Meaning, for certain companies, you can drastically reduce your mod without reducing claims.

However, not every company is eligible. During your audit, we'll discuss: 

  • Workers' comp premiums and where you stand against the limit
  • Whether paying a deductible will actually help when compared to your claims history
  • Minimum deductible requirements and what number might be right for you
  • Other driving factors behind your E-Mod (return-to-work program, pre-employment screenings, filing practices and more)
  • Your safety program and documentation process 

 

NET REPORTING EXAMPLE

Same Company. Vastly Different E-Mod.

2026
Expected Losses: $195,000 
Total Losses: $230,000
Deductible: Not Allowed 
Counted Against EMR: $230,000
 
EMR: 1.16
2027
Expected Losses: $195,000 
Total Losses: $230,000
Deductible: $75,000 
Counted Against EMR: $155,000
 
EMR: 0.98

 

WHY THE CHANGE?

You've been at a disadvantage without knowing it.

Why is Nebraska making this change?  The short answer is competitiveness.

Nebraska businesses — particularly contractors and manufacturers — have been operating at a structural disadvantage compared to peers in the 15 states that already use net reporting, which includes neighboring states Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, Missouri and Colorado. 

When two companies with identical safety records compete for the same project, the one in a net reporting state can report lower losses against their EMR simply because of where they’re incorporated. That’s not a reflection of who runs a safer operation. It’s a reflection of which state’s insurance framework gives them a better tool.

And in the age of data centers, mega-projects and large government contracts, subcontractors are held to extremely high standards on safety and documentation. An EMR above a 1.0, and you're likely out of the running before you hit submit on the RFP.

See if you're able to take advantage of these new rules in 2027.

workcompmap - Edited

 

FROM OWNERS LIKE YOU

Here's what our clients are saying.

"It was fun to see that E-Mod progression every year. We were getting better, getting better, getting better."
Amy Skalka, Van Kirk Bros. Contracting
"The combination of risk management knowledge by the team in our specific business, along with the plan they deliver are the main reasons we recommend Ellerbrock-Norris."
Kelly Thompson, Thompson Construction

"I have already gained valuable knowledge and networking opportunities with other safety professionals around the community from various industries."
Rodney Strange, Landscapes Unlimited

 

IS THIS FOR YOU?

This action plan is built for a specific kind of business.

  • Construction, manufacturing, speciality trades

  • 15+ employees (W-2 or mixed workforce)

  • $1.5M annual revenue

  • You operate in Nebraska

  • Solo operators or very small crews (<15 people)

  • Just looking for cheaper insurance quotes

  • Not in trades, construction or manufacturing

  • You do not operate in Nebraska

new nebraska workers' compensation rules guide

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