WorkSafeNB says New Brunswick employers will continue to benefit from the lowest assessment rate in the province’s history, while also receiving millions in refunds.
The agency announced the 2026 average assessment rate will remain at $1.10 for every $100 of payroll. That rate, reduced from $1.18 in 2024, is expected to stay the second lowest in the country.
WorkSafeNB also confirmed it will return $53.2 million in performance refunds to eligible employers.
Refunds over $1,000 will be issued by cheque, while smaller amounts will be credited to employer accounts to lower 2026 premiums.
Tim Petersen, WorkSafeNB’s president and chief executive officer, said the agency’s strong funding position makes it possible to keep rates stable while maintaining a financially sustainable system.
“This rate stability along with the performance refund gives businesses the ability to reinvest in their people and operations,” Petersen said in the release.
The agency reported a funded position of 152.9 per cent as of Dec. 31, 2024. It attributed that to strong investment returns and the combined efforts of employers, workers and WorkSafeNB.
Petersen noted that while new injury costs have risen, mainly due to higher health‑care expenses, the agency is drawing on a $0.31 subsidy from the Accident Fund to keep the average rate at $1.10.
Board chair Mel Norton said the Accident Fund is being managed to keep rates competitive while also enhancing benefits for injured workers and their families.
“Our board is committed to ensuring that our province’s workers’ compensation system remains strong and sustainable,” Norton said.
In recent years, WorkSafeNB has increased benefits for injured workers. Wage‑loss benefits rose from 85 to 90 per cent of net earnings in 2024, and the maximum annual earnings covered also increased.
As of July 1, 2025, benefits for surviving spouses were raised to 90 per cent of net earnings.
The agency also confirmed there will be no change to the rate charged to fund the Firefighters’ Compensation Act disability fund, which remains at $220 per firefighter.
Petersen said WorkSafeNB’s long‑term vision is to make New Brunswick the safest place to work.
“That means ensuring workers have the security they deserve, and employers have the stability they need,” he said.
