Lowest rate in over 50 years ‘will save businesses $60 million,’ says labour minister
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) has announced that Ontario businesses will see a further reduction in the average premium rate for 2026, dropping to $1.23 per $100 of insurable payroll from $1.25 in 2025.
“This reduction to WSIB’s average premium rate – the lowest in over 50 years – will save businesses $60 million to reinvest in health and safety improvements, stay competitive and strengthen our economy,” said David Piccini, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development.
This is the seventh premium rate reduction in 10 years, with the average rate now more than 50 percent lower than in 2017. Over the past decade, WSIB premium reductions and surplus distributions have resulted in $21.5 billion in cumulative savings for Ontario businesses, while coverage and services have expanded, it says.
Individual 2026 premium rate statements will be available through the WSIB’s website in November.
Streamlined registration, safety portal
The WSIB also highlighted ongoing improvements, including a streamlined registration process and expanded online services, making it easier for businesses to manage their accounts and access resources.
Earlier in 2025, the WSIB announced a partnership with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, providing all WSIB-registered businesses with free access to the Business Safety Portal. The WSIB estimates this could save businesses up to $1,700 per year in subscription fees.
The portal offers templates, online courses, and practical guides to help organizations improve workplace safety and meet legal requirements. Businesses can access the portal by logging into their WSIB account at wsib.ca .
Ontario employers can sign up for online services at WSIB to:
- View their claims
- Track the status of an appeal
- Report and pay premiums
- View their statement
- Find or obtain a clearance
- Report an injury or illness
- Analyze their rates, past claims costs and view their Workplace Injury Summary Report using Compass
- Access health and safety programs.
