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IMSS Risk Class: What Every CEO and HR Director Needs to Know

  • Manuel Gonzalez
  • Apr 10
  • 2 min read

If you own a business in Mexico, the IMSS Risk Class is a topic you can't afford to ignore. It directly impacts the cost of your social security premiums and influences your company's financial stability. So, if you've ever wondered how it works and how to optimize it, here’s a clear and straightforward explanation.


IMSS Risk Class: What Every CEO and HR Director Needs to Know

What is the IMSS Risk Class?

The Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) classifies businesses into five Risk Classes (I, II, III, IV, and V) based on the level of danger associated with their activities. From administrative offices (Class I) to mining and construction (Class V), each category determines the percentage you will pay for Workplace Risk Insurance.

Simply put, the riskier your business activity, the higher your premium will be.

Difference Between Risk Class and Risk Premium


These terms are often confused, but they refer to different things:

  • Risk Class: The classification assigned by IMSS according to the company's economic activity.

  • Risk Premium: The percentage paid on employees' base salaries to cover workplace risks, which varies depending on the company's accident rate.


Below is a table showing the Risk Class and its Initial Risk Premium:

Risk Class

Initial Risk Premium

I

0.54355%

II

1.13065%

III

2.59840%

IV

4.65325%

V

7.58875%


How is the Risk Class Determined?

Each company is classified according to the IMSS Activity Catalog, where a specific risk code is assigned. This process takes place when you register your business with IMSS and is based on your primary activity.

If you believe your company's classification is incorrect or that you can optimize costs, there are strategies to review and, in some cases, modify your Risk Class.


IMSS Risk Class: What Every CEO and HR Director Needs to Know


Why is Optimizing Your IMSS Risk Class Important?

This is where strategy comes into play. Your risk premium is reviewed each February and is calculated based on the workplace accidents and occupational diseases reported in your company. If you can reduce workplace incidents, you can pay less.

Benefits of effective risk management:

  • Cost savings: Lowering the risk premium directly reduces your company's financial burden.

  • Improved work environment: A safe and healthy workplace boosts productivity and employee commitment.

  • Regulatory compliance: Avoid fines and penalties from IMSS and the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS).


IMSS Risk Class: What Every CEO and HR Director Needs to Know

How Can I Reduce My IMSS Risk Class?

  1. Classification Review: Ensure your company is correctly classified within the IMSS catalog. Sometimes businesses are registered with a higher risk than they actually have.

  2. Occupational Health and Safety Strategies: Implementing workplace risk prevention programs reduces incidents and, consequently, the risk premium.

  3. Ongoing Training: A well-trained workforce in workplace safety reduces accidents.

  4. Annual Risk Premium Review: Properly submitting the Risk Premium Determination to IMSS can help you pay less if risks have decreased.


Conclusion

Don’t let the IMSS Risk Class be just another number in your accounting. Managing it strategically can save you costs and improve workplace safety. If you have doubts or want to optimize your classification, InterHuman can help you make the best decisions for your company and team.

Ready to optimize your IMSS Risk Class? Contact us and let’s create a safer and more efficient workplace together.


Manuel Gonzalez

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