Discover the smarter, simpler way to manage workers’ comp payroll and payments.

Join other Pinnacol members switching to Pay-as-you-go, powered by InsurePay®. This solution eliminates large upfront deposits and guesswork, keeping your cash where it belongs — in your business.

Pay-as-you-go
Frequently Asked Questions for Members

How does Pay-as-you-go work?

Pay-as-you-go bridges the gap between your workers’ comp insurance policy and your payroll provider. Instead of manual reporting or estimating payroll, your premiums are automatically calculated and paid each pay period. By syncing these two systems, managing your insurance becomes as seamless and predictable as your payroll.

What are the benefits of Pay-as-you-go?

  • Maximize Your Cash Flow: Eliminate large upfront deposits and spread payments across your natural payroll cycle to keep capital in your business.
  • Real-Time Precision: Pay exactly what you owe based on actual payroll data — not estimates. This means fewer billing fluctuations and minimizes year-end audit surprises.
  • Total Automation: Connects with over 2,000 payroll providers (like ADP and QuickBooks) for a hands-off experience with automatic payroll reporting and deductions.

What's the difference between Pay-as-you-go and traditional workers' comp payroll?

Pay-as-you-go is a modern way to manage your premium payments. Unlike traditional workers’ compensation, where premiums are based on estimates and often require large down payments, Pay-as-you-go uses your actual payroll data.

It’s important to note that Pay-as-you-go is a billing method, not a different type of insurance. It does not replace your coverage or your responsibility to manage subcontractors' certificates of insurance.

Does Pay-as-you-go eliminate the need for an audit?

No, having Pay-as-you-go doesn't prevent your business from being audited. However, it can significantly simplify the process. Because Pay-as-you-go is a billing method rather than a different type of insurance, your policy requirements remain the same as a traditional plan. However, since your premiums are calculated using real-time payroll data throughout the year, your year-end audit is typically much faster, more accurate, and less likely to result in large "catch-up" payments.

Who is eligible for Pay-as-you-go?

To enroll in Pay-as-you-go, your workers’ comp policy must be $2,500 or greater.

How to enroll in Pay-as-you-go?

Getting started is simple. Just notify your Pinnacol agent or underwriter that you want to switch to the Pay-as-you-go option. You can enroll at any time, even mid-term.

  • New members: Simply request the Pay-as-you-go option when setting up your new policy.
  • Existing members: Contact your Pinnacol agent or underwriter at any time to transition your current policy to the new billing cycle.

Please note: While Pay-as-you-go integrates with over 2,000 providers, click this Provider Locator to confirm that your specific payroll provider supports this option.

How do I complete my Pay-as-you-go setup?

Take a look at these videos from InsurePay to learn more about Pay-as-you-go.

  • Overview – A high-level look at how the system works.
  • Setup wizard – A step-by-step guide to the registration process.

What if I’m having issues completing my Pay-as-you-go setup?

Don't worry — help is available. Depending on where you are in the process, here’s who to contact:

  • For policy or enrollment questions: Contact your Pinnacol agent or underwriter. They ensure your policy is correctly coded for Pay-as-you-go.
  • For technical setup or payroll connection issues: If you are having trouble linking your payroll provider in the portal, reach out to the InsurePay Support Team directly.