What is a WSIB Account?
WSIB is an independent agency of the Government of Ontario. WSIB is a workplace injury insurance system. It administers compensation and no-fault insurance for Ontario workplaces. WSIB provides insurance for injuries and illnesses incurred through work-related activities and promotes workplace health and safety measures to reduce workplace risks and prevent future 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.
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.
Immediately after a workplace injury, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if necessary. Then, report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer should provide you with a Form 7 to report the injury to WSIB. You should also consider keeping a personal record of the incident, including dates, times, and details about the injury or illness.
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.
If you disagree with WSIB’s decision, you have the right to appeal. Initially, you can request a reconsideration of the decision by WSIB itself. If you remain dissatisfied, you can take your appeal to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT), which is an independent body from WSIB.
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.
Yes, WSIB covers psychological or psychiatric conditions if they are proven to be work-related. This includes stress disorders or trauma related to a specific workplace event or series of events within the workplace.
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 can return to work while receiving WSIB benefits if your health care provider determines you are medically able to perform your work or modified work duties. WSIB also provides programs and services to help facilitate your safe return to work.
You’ll need your Business Number, OCN, Business name and other relevant details of your business.
Yes, WSIB coverage extends to part-time, temporary, and contract workers, as well as full-time employees. The key factor is that the injury or illness must be work-related. If you are covered under WSIB, you can file a claim regardless of your employment status.
WSIB evaluates whether an injury or illness is directly related to workplace activities. This includes considering the nature of the injury, the circumstances under which it occurred, and any medical evidence provided. WSIB also looks at whether your job poses a specific risk that contributed to the condition.
If you believe your employer is not compliant with WSIB registration requirements, you can anonymously report this to WSIB. It is mandatory for most employers in Ontario to have WSIB coverage, and failure to comply can result in fines and penalties.