If all your paperwork is submitted correctly, you can generally expect your first WorkSafeNB income replacement payment within 2 to 4 weeks after your workplace injury. Setting up direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your funds compared to waiting for a physical cheque in the mail.
When you are injured on the job, your regular income stops, but your monthly bills do not. For injured workers in New Brunswick, wondering when the first WorkSafeNB payment will arrive is a massive source of anxiety.
Whether you reside in Saint John, Miramichi, or Edmunston, the speed of your claim heavily depends on how quickly you, your employer, and your doctor submit the mandatory reports. Knowing how to navigate this system can help you avoid unnecessary delays. 📍
Step-by-Step Process in New Brunswick
WorkSafeNB cannot begin processing your claim or issue a payment until they have a complete picture of your accident. Here is how you can speed up the administrative process.
Step 1: Submit Your Application Instantly
Do not wait for your employer to file their paperwork. You should immediately submit the Application for Workers’ Compensation Benefits (Form 67). 💻
Filing this form online through the MyServices portal is significantly faster than mailing a paper copy. This opens your file in the provincial system and assigns you a claim number right away.
Step 2: Follow Up With Your Doctor
WorkSafeNB needs medical proof that your injury prevents you from working. Ensure your treating physician or the emergency room doctor has filled out and submitted the Physician’s First Report.
Often, delays occur simply because a clinic forgot to fax the form. Politely call your doctor’s office a few days after your visit to confirm the paperwork was successfully sent to WorkSafeNB.
Step 3: Sign Up for Direct Deposit
Once your claim is approved, how you choose to get paid matters. By default, WorkSafeNB may mail physical cheques.
To avoid postal delays, log into your WorkSafeNB MyServices account and enter your Canadian bank details. Direct deposit ensures the funds are instantly available in your account the moment they are released by the agency.
How Much Does it Cost in New Brunswick?
While applying for benefits is a free government service, waiting for your first cheque can create temporary financial costs you should prepare for:
- Lost Wages: Your employer pays for the day of the injury, but you may face a gap of 2 to 4 weeks without income while the claim is processed.
- Prescription Costs: Until your claim is formally approved and you receive a WorkSafeNB claim number, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for painkillers or physiotherapy. Keep all receipts! Once approved, WorkSafeNB will reimburse you for these eligible expenses.
- Travel Expenses: If you must travel to see a specialist, you may temporarily cover gas and parking. You can later submit these for reimbursement at the standard provincial mileage rate.
How Long Does the Process Take?
If your Form 67, the employer’s report, and the doctor’s report are all submitted within 3 days of the accident, WorkSafeNB adjudicators generally make an initial decision within 14 days. ⏱
After approval, processing the payment takes an additional few days. Therefore, the total timeline from the day of your injury to seeing money in your bank account is usually 2 to 4 weeks. If your employer disputes the injury, investigations can delay this timeline to 6 to 8 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get an advance on my WorkSafeNB payment?
No. WorkSafeNB does not issue emergency advances or loans while your claim is under investigation. If you are facing severe financial hardship, you may need to rely on sick leave, short-term disability, or provincial social assistance until your claim is approved.
What if my employer refuses to file their report?
If your employer refuses to submit the Employer Report of Injury, do not panic. Submit your Form 67 anyway and inform WorkSafeNB of the situation. WorkSafeNB has the legal authority to penalize uncooperative employers and will still process your claim based on your medical reports.
How often will I get paid after the first cheque?
Once your initial back-pay is deposited, WorkSafeNB loss of earnings benefits are typically paid on a bi-weekly basis (every two weeks) for as long as you are medically unable to return to work.
Should I apply for Employment Insurance (EI) while waiting?
If your WorkSafeNB claim is delayed for months due to an investigation or an appeal, you may apply for EI Sickness Benefits through Service Canada. However, if WorkSafeNB later approves your claim, you will have to repay the EI benefits you received for that overlapping period.
Leave a Reply