Toronto, October 22, 2026 – The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) announced today the average premium rate for Ontario businesses in 2027 will be reduced to $1.18 per $100 of insurable earnings, down from $1.23 in 2026, and from $2.35 in 2018.
Ontario’s average premium rate will now be almost 30 per cent below the national average. The 2027 reduction leaves $160 million in Ontario’s economy to support jobs and investments in innovation and health and safety during ongoing economic uncertainty.
“We’ve been able to improve results for people and reduce administrative costs and that means more money can stay in Ontario’s economy,” said Jeffery Lang, WSIB President and CEO. “We’re able to help people recover and return to work while also helping over 80 per cent of businesses receive a rate cut.”
A report from Ernst and Young estimates the WSIB’s reductions to premium rates and surplus distributions over the past three years have supported the creation or sustainment of over 11,500 jobs in Ontario. The organization’s recent increases in local health care partnerships and service improvements, mean that almost 9 out of 10 people who miss work because of an injury are able to return within three months
“When businesses can invest in their workers, it creates more opportunity and greater stability for families and communities,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “As Ontario businesses face pressures from U.S. tariffs, lowering costs helps them stay competitive. This WSIB rate reduction gives employers more room to invest in their workers, create safer workplaces and grow their businesses, supporting good-paying jobs across the province.”
Lang noted the WSIB continues to deliver value for businesses, especially for those looking to improve their health and safety record.
Every business registered with the WSIB gains free access to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety’s Business Safety Portal. Access to the portal can cost businesses outside Ontario up to $1700 per year.
Ontario businesses can also join the WSIB’s Health and Safety Excellence program where they can earn rebates for completing topics related to mental stress, injury prevention, and return to work support. Small businesses in the program earn rebates of $9,000 on average, per year, with large businesses earning an average of $40,000 in annual rebates.
“It’s easier than ever for people and businesses to access the resources they need to reduce the impact of workplace injuries and illnesses,” said Lang. “Our team is here to help every step of the way.”
Businesses will be able to access their individual 2027 premium rate statements exclusively through the WSIB’s website starting in November.