The ACORD 160 Workers Compensation Loss Run Request is the standard form used to formally request loss history from a workers compensation carrier. Loss runs are required for virtually every commercial WC submission and renewal — and getting them quickly is often the difference between submitting on time and missing a market's deadline.
The ACORD 160 is used whenever a WC loss run is needed: • Quoting a new account — 3 to 5 years of WC loss history required • Renewing a WC policy — current carrier loss run needed for comparison shopping • Calculating or challenging the experience modification factor • Responding to an underwriting inquiry requiring claims detail • Completing a risk management audit
The ACORD 160 collects:
• Named insured's legal name and address • FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) — carriers use this to locate the account • Policy number(s) for each year of history requested • Policy periods (effective and expiration dates) for each year • States of operation • Authorized signature from the insured or agent • Instructions for where to send the completed loss runs
Most states have laws requiring WC carriers to provide loss runs within 10 to 30 days of a written request. NCCI's standard is 15 business days. Some states (California, for example) require response within 10 calendar days.
Agents who need loss runs quickly should:
1. Submit the ACORD 160 as early as possible — don't wait until 30 days before renewal 2. Send via email with read receipt or certified mail to create a record of the request date 3. Follow up at the 10-day mark if not received 4. Know the state law for the states where the policy was written
If a carrier fails to provide loss runs within the legally required period, the agent has several options:
• Escalate within the carrier's agent services department • File a complaint with the state insurance department • Use the NCCI experience mod worksheet as a substitute if the EMR is available • Proceed with the submission and note that loss runs were requested but not yet received — many underwriters will quote subject to receipt of loss runs
Documenting the request date and follow-up attempts protects the agent if there is a later dispute about why loss runs weren't provided.
WC and GL loss runs are requested separately — each line has its own claims history and its own form. The ACORD 160 is specifically for WC. For GL loss runs, there is no single standard ACORD form — agents typically use a letter on agency letterhead or a carrier-specific form.
For accounts with multiple lines, agents should request all loss runs simultaneously (WC, GL, auto, property) as early as possible to avoid having one line's loss run delay the entire submission.
Not including the policy number and FEIN — carriers can't locate the account without these
Waiting too long to request loss runs and missing underwriting deadlines
Requesting only the most recent year when markets require 3 to 5 years
Not following up when loss runs aren't received within the required period
Confusing the ACORD 160 (WC loss run request) with the GL loss run process — each line requires a separate request
Send your client a plain-English intake link. When they finish, the completed ACORD 160 and all required companion forms are generated and ready to submit.