WSIB Claims in Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you were hurt at work, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides benefits including lost wages, medical costs, and long-term disability support. Here's how the system works.
What Is WSIB?
WSIB is Ontario's no-fault workplace insurance system. Most Ontario employers must register with WSIB. In exchange for coverage, workers cannot sue their employers for workplace injuries in most cases.
Who Is Eligible?
- Workers injured during the course of employment in Ontario.
- Workers who develop an occupational disease caused by workplace conditions.
- Coverage extends to physical injuries, psychological injuries, and chronic pain in some cases.
Independent contractors and some professional categories (lawyers, doctors, certain domestic workers) may not be covered automatically.
Key Deadlines
| Action | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Report injury to employer | As soon as possible |
| Worker files Form 6 with WSIB | Within 6 months of injury |
| Employer files Form 7 | Within 3 days of learning of injury |
| Appeal an initial decision (Objects Review) | Within 6 months of decision |
| Appeal to WSIAT Tribunal | Within 6 months of WSIB final decision |
WSIB Benefits
- Lost earnings benefit (LEBs) — 85% of your net pre-injury earnings while you cannot work.
- Non-economic loss (NEL) — A lump-sum payment for permanent impairment.
- Health care benefits — Prescriptions, physiotherapy, assistive devices.
- Loss of retirement income (LORI) — A supplement for long-term claims.
- Survivor benefits — For dependants in the case of a fatal injury.
If Your Claim Is Denied
WSIB denies many initial claims. You have options:
- Objects Review — Request an internal review by WSIB within 6 months of the decision.
- WSIAT Appeal — If still denied, appeal to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT), an independent body.
- Gather medical evidence — Independent medical opinions, specialist reports, and daily journals significantly strengthen appeals.
A licensed paralegal can prepare your appeal, gather evidence, and represent you at WSIAT hearings at a fraction of the cost of a lawyer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not reporting the injury to your employer immediately — delays hurt credibility.
- Missing WSIB filing deadlines.
- Returning to work before being medically cleared — this can terminate your benefits.
- Posting on social media in ways that contradict your claimed injuries.
Was your WSIB claim denied or underpaid?
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