If you are unable to work due to a workplace injury, WorkSafeNB generally replaces 90% of your pre-accident net earnings (your income after taxes). These loss of earnings benefits are tax-free but are capped at a maximum annual limit set by the provincial government.
Suffering an injury on the job is incredibly stressful, especially when you are worried about how to pay your bills while recovering. In New Brunswick, the workers’ compensation system is designed to provide financial stability when you cannot perform your regular duties.
Whether you work in a warehouse in Moncton, a hospital in Saint John, or an office in Fredericton, you may be entitled to loss of earnings benefits. Understanding how WorkSafeNB calculates this income replacement is the first step toward securing your financial future. 📍
Step-by-Step Process in New Brunswick
Getting your income replacement approved requires a coordinated effort between you, your employer, and your healthcare provider. Missing a step can delay your crucial payments.
Step 1: Report the Accident to Your Employer
You must notify your supervisor or employer immediately after the injury occurs. This creates an official record of the workplace incident. 📞
By law, your employer must submit an Employer Report of Injury or Illness to WorkSafeNB within three days of being notified if you require medical care beyond basic first aid or miss time from work.
Step 2: Seek Medical Attention and Report to WorkSafeNB
Visit a hospital, clinic, or your family doctor as soon as possible. You must explicitly tell the doctor that your injury happened at work so they can fill out the necessary medical reports for WorkSafeNB.
You also need to file your own application. You can easily do this by filling out an Application for Workers’ Compensation Benefits (Form 67) online or by mailing a paper copy.
Step 3: Cooperate with Your Case Manager
Once your claim is accepted, you will be assigned a WorkSafeNB case manager. They will review your pre-accident earnings and calculate your 90% net income replacement.
You must participate in your prescribed medical treatments and keep your case manager updated on your recovery progress to ensure your benefits continue without interruption.
How Much Does it Cost in New Brunswick?
Filing a claim with WorkSafeNB is completely free, but understanding the financial numbers around your income replacement is vital:
- Income Replacement Rate: You generally receive 90% of your net earnings (gross pay minus income tax, CPP, and EI deductions).
- Maximum Annual Earnings (MAE): WorkSafeNB caps the gross salary they use for calculations. While this figure adjusts yearly, it is currently $85,800 CAD in 2026. If you earn more than the MAE, your compensation is capped at this maximum level.
- Tax Status: WorkSafeNB benefits are non-taxable. You will receive a T5007 tax slip at the end of the year, but you do not pay income tax on these specific benefits.
- Medical Costs: Approved medications, physiotherapy, and medical travel expenses are generally covered at 100%.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Once WorkSafeNB receives all three required reports (your application, your employer’s report, and your doctor’s report), an initial decision is typically made within 14 to 21 days. ⏱
If your claim is straightforward and approved quickly, you can expect to receive your first income replacement cheque or direct deposit within 2 to 4 weeks from the date of your injury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I get paid for the day I was injured?
Yes. By law, your employer is required to pay your full regular wages for the actual day the injury occurred. WorkSafeNB income replacement benefits begin on the first working day following the accident.
What happens if I worked two jobs?
If you held multiple jobs when you were injured, WorkSafeNB will generally combine the income from all your employments to calculate your pre-accident net earnings, provided all employers were covered under the workers’ compensation system.
Will my benefits stop if my employer fires me?
No. Your loss of earnings benefits are based on your medical inability to work, not your employment status. If you are let go while recovering, WorkSafeNB will continue paying your benefits as long as your workplace injury prevents you from working.
Can a law firm help me get more money?
If your claim is accepted and your earnings are calculated correctly, a lawyer cannot change the statutory 90% rate. However, if WorkSafeNB miscalculates your income, denies your claim, or cuts off your benefits early, hiring a local law firm for an appeal is highly recommended.
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