ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade Business Related Discussion BWC Audit

Anyone ever get audited by the BWC? I am in November and I am just wondering what I might expect and how I might be most prepared to make it a smooth and quick process.

BWC?

Bureau of Worker's Compensation...

Every year, why?

We get ready every year, by having all payroll records ready for the period, they check payroll, against your insured amount, we have our private audit on an annual basis and the state audit can come at any time, so best to keep your records up to date.

LK,

that's what I was wondering. Our insurance company audits us every year, but the only time the state contacts you is if there is a complaint.

And DO check the results of the audit. Many of these auditors and not the best and brightest, and certainly they're not infallible.

Biggest problems with audits include misclassifcation of employees, like clerical and non-clerical (clerical premiums are cheaper), officer payroll, etc. This can result in some serious backbilling. Experience mods are another biggie.

Often you'll find whatever you pay your CPA to have the audit done in HIS/HER office will be more than made up in savings. Besides, you don't want any auditor, whether from your insurance company or the state in your office or premises... no good can possibly come from it.

Joe

Just to clarify. This is not a payroll audit for Liability Insurance premiums. This is an audit by the State of Ohio Bureau of Worker's Compensation. Its not something that is performed every year (at least not in Ohio). Its more like a random selection.

But regardless, I just wondered if anyone was experienced in the whole thing and could maybe give me some pointers on preparation and expectations.

I have paid my premiums correctly as far as I know so I'm not really worried. I guess I just want to be best prepared since this is likely going to waste an entire day...

[This message has been edited by Happi_Man (edited 10-16-2006).]

We just went through a WC audit. You are correct, it is random. It is not a big deal if you are paying your fair share and also not illegally characterising employees as subs.
The guy who came out to us was actually very nice. He was there most fo the day and at the end just said thanks. Just make sure you have all your records available to make the auditors job easier.

God bless.