Lowest rate in decades announced for Ontario businesses
Ontario businesses will see a reduction in workplace insurance costs next year as the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) announced Friday that the average premium rate for 2026 will drop to $1.23 per $100 of insurable payroll, down from $1.25 in 2025.
The cut is expected to save businesses $60 million compared to this year, at a time when many are navigating economic uncertainty.
“We’re proud to do our part to help businesses and contribute to the economic prosperity of Ontario,” said Jeffery Lang, WSIB president and CEO. “We’re able to offer these savings because our team is delivering results, helping people to safely recover and return to work.”
The WSIB noted this is the seventh time in the past decade the average premium rate has been reduced, with the figure falling more than 50% since 2017. In that period, the agency said it has expanded coverage and improved services for workers injured or made ill on the job.
According to the WSIB, average premium reductions and several surplus distributions have generated cumulative savings of about $21.5 billion for businesses over the past 10 years.
“Ontario is laser-focused on keeping costs down for workers and businesses in the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty,” said David Piccini, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development. “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.”
The WSIB said it is also making it easier for businesses to manage their accounts through a new streamlined registration process, expanded 24/7 online services, and free access to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety’s Business Portal.
“We’re helping businesses focus on what matters most – running their business,” said Lang. “It’s easier than ever for businesses to manage their WSIB account, while accessing tools and resources to help them keep their people safe.”
Individual 2026 premium rate statements will be available to Ontario businesses exclusively on the WSIB website beginning in November.
