Confirms benefit payments will continue to Ontarians with work related injuries or illness
Toronto, March 26, 2020 – The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), in conjunction with the Government of Ontario, has developed a financial relief package worth $1.9 billion to help employers reduce the financial burden of the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation.
“We have worked closely with the Government of Ontario to help Ontario businesses as they face this unprecedented challenge,” said Elizabeth Witmer, Chair of the WSIB. “Ontario businesses will now be able to defer their WSIB premium payments up to six months.”
All employers covered by the WSIB’s workplace insurance are automatically eligible for the financial relief package. This means that businesses can defer premium reporting and payments until August 31, 2020. This premium deferral impacts businesses who report and pay monthly, quarterly or annually based on their insurable earnings.
Additionally, no interest will accrue on outstanding premium payments and no penalties will be charged during this six-month deferral period.
This relief package also applies to Schedule 2 employers – publicly funded organizations (municipalities, hospitals, school boards), and other businesses who are involved in federally regulated industries.
The WSIB also confirmed that while its offices remain closed to the public during this time, it remains committed to serving the people of Ontario. Benefit payments will continue for people with work related injuries or illness. New claims can be submitted and will be adjudicated, and our online services, including document upload, are available. Dedicated customer support teams are also available by phone to provide urgent support.
“Our relief package will support businesses in this difficult time while protecting coverage for people who need us,” said Tom Teahen, President and CEO of the WSIB. “We know how tough this situation is for everyone and we are here to help.”
Businesses can learn more by visiting the WSIB’s COVID-19 information page and continue to manage their account information through the WSIB’s online services.
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For further information, please contact:
WSIB media relations
media@wsib.on.ca
647-534-1497