WorkplaceNL will maintain its average assessment rate at $1.73 per $100 of assessable payroll for 2026, marking another year of stability for employers in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The rate includes a temporary discount of $0.21 per $100 that has been applied since 2019 to address a surplus in the Injury Fund.
Rate changes by employer
While the average rate remains unchanged, individual employer rates will vary based on industry group claims experience and company-specific performance. Sixty-eight per cent of employers will see rates that either remain stable or decrease in 2026, while 32 per cent will face higher rates.
Assessment rate notices will be available online this week. WorkplaceNL is encouraging employers to register for online services accounts through MyWorkplaceNL.
Fund performance and future considerations
The assessment rate is set annually to cover wage-loss and health care benefits for injuries expected in the coming year. However, fluctuations in global financial markets may impact Injury Fund investments and the funded position, according to the organization.
Possible future benefit changes may also affect the rate.
PRIME program requirements expand
Employers can earn PRIME refunds to reduce their assessments while improving workplace safety. Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Path 2 employers — those with 20 or more workers at any worksite who pay $10,000 or more in average assessments — will be required to maintain a 15-element occupational health and safety program to qualify for refunds.
Prevention and return-to-work focus
WorkplaceNL is refocusing efforts on preventing injuries in higher-risk workplaces, said Elizabeth Lane, the organization’s CEO.
“We understand the impact a workplace injury has on a worker, their employer and their family,” said Lane. “Guided by our 2023-28 workplace injury prevention strategy, we are re-prioritizing efforts to help workplaces with higher injury rates prevent those injuries.”
The organization supports return-to-work programs that focus on what injured workers can safely do during recovery, she said.
“Our goal is to maintain a sustainable, employer-funded, no-fault workers’ compensation system for years to come that supports workers and provides coverage for employers,” said Lane.
Maximum earnings cap increases
The Maximum Compensable and Assessable Earnings will increase by two per cent for 2026 to $80,935 from $79,345.
The MCAE represents the maximum earnings insured per worker. Wage-loss benefits for workers submitting new claims in 2026 whose pre-injury earnings are $80,935 or more will be calculated using this limit.
WorkplaceNL adjusts the MCAE annually based on the average Consumer Price Index.
