WSIB Non-Economic Loss (NEL) Benefits Explained

If a work injury or illness leaves you with a permanent impairment, the WSIB can pay a non-economic loss (NEL) benefit under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.

When it is paid

When your condition has reached maximum medical recovery and you are left with a permanent impairment.

How it is calculated

• A percentage rating of your whole-person impairment, using medical guides.
• The percentage is multiplied by a set base amount, adjusted by age.
• It is usually paid as a lump sum, though larger amounts may be paid monthly.

Your medical evidence

The rating often depends on a medical assessment. Make sure your doctors' reports describe all your permanent limitations.

If you disagree

• You can object to the WSIB's decision, usually within six months (some decisions have shorter time limits).
• After the WSIB's final decision, you may appeal to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT).

Worsening

If your impairment significantly and permanently worsens, you can ask for a re-rating, generally once 12 months have passed since the last decision.

Sources

• Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997
• WSIB: non-economic loss
• Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal

Read next: WSIB Health Care Benefits: Treatment, Medication and Travel

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Unsplash: A group of large pillars sitting next to each other · a person writing on a piece of paper.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.