WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) is a no-fault workplace injury insurance system. In Ontario, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) is a provincial agency that provides no-fault insurance to protect workers and employers in case of work-related injuries and illnesses. Every Province has their own Workplace Safety Board. Although the name is different, but the functions are the same. In Ontario it is called WSIB, In BC “WorkSafeBC”, in Newfoundland “WorkplaceNL”.
The WSIB operates under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997. It is the main organization handling workers’ compensation and occupational health and safety in Ontario. If you are a business owner or an employee in Ontario you should understand how WSIB works and how it impacts you.
What is a WSIB Account?
WSIB is an account that created by an employer to register their business with the WSIB. Every employers should register with the WSIB within 10 days of hiring their first employee. Employers can fund the WSIB program with premiums paid through this account, and employees can obtain benefits in the event of a work-related illness or accident.
WSIB promotes workplace health, and safety and encourages every employer in Ontario to prevent workplace injuries and occupational disease. If an injury happens, WSIB makes sure injured employees receive the best care possible and benefits to which they are entitled, recover from their injury, and return to work in an early and safe manner.
How to Set Up a WSIB Account
Setting up a WSIB account involves a few straightforward steps:
- Determine Your Eligibility: First of all, you need to verify if your business falls under a mandatory or optional industry for WSIB coverage. Most businesses with employees in Ontario need to register.
- Gather Necessary Information: If you are eligible, now you should have details like your business registration number, industry classification, and payroll information ready before registering,
- Register Online or By Phone: You can register WSIB online through our website. Once you place an order our accountant will send you a secure form to fill up then he will register your WSIB account.
- Receive Your Account Number: Once registered, you will receive a WSIB account number, which you’ll use for all communications and payments.
Benefits of Having an Ontario WSIB Account
- No-Fault Insurance: By the WSIB’s no-fault insurance both Employers and employees are protected. Which means employees cannot sue their employer for workplace injuries.
- Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Programs: One of the interesting benefits of WSIB is it offers support services that help injured employees recover and return to work.
- Health and Safety Incentives: WSIB works as a shield for employers. Employers can benefit from various health and safety initiatives. It may include rebates and incentives for improving workplace safety.
- Access to Compensation: When Employees get injured or sick due to work-related activities at the workplace can receive compensation. It also includes lost wages and medical
WSIB Premiums and Reporting
WSIB premiums are calculated based on the employer’s payroll and the industry risk class. Employers are required to report and pay premiums regularly. If you do not regular basis it may result in fines, penalties, or cancellation of the WSIB account. Employers should also ensure accurate payroll reporting to avoid overpaying or underpaying premiums.
All Ontario businesses that have employees must need to have a WSIB account. The employees could be full-time, part-time, and casual workers. However, some industries like financial institutions and health care providers may be exempt.
Failure to register your business can result in penalties, fines, and even legal action. Your business may also lose access to WSIB benefits in case of a workplace injury.
WSIB premiums are calculated based on your business’s industry risk classification and total payroll. The higher the risk associated with your industry, the higher the premium rates.
All employers need to report Premiums and paid on a regular basis. It can be monthly or quarterly, depending on your business’s size and payroll.
If you’re not required to register or are a business owner (whether you’re a sole proprietor, partner, or executive officer) of your business, you can still choose to have WSIB optional insurance. Self-employed individuals in Ontario can choose to opt into WSIB coverage by registering for This provides the same protection as it does for employees, covering lost wages and medical expenses.
WSIB clearance is a document that confirms an employer is registered with WSIB and up to date on their premiums. It’s often required before a company can work with certain contractors or clients.
Yes, if you think that WSIB decision was incorrect both employers and employees can appeal a WSIB decision. The appeal must be filed within the specific timeline provided by WSIB.
You’ll need your Business Number, OCN, Business name and other relevant details of your business.