WorkSafeNB announced two significant measures that will directly benefit New Brunswick’s workplaces and its economy.
The 2026 average assessment rate will remain at $1.10 per $100 of payroll, maintaining the lowest rate in New Brunswick’s history. Reduced from a $1.18 in 2024, the $1.10 rate is expected to remain the second lowest in the country. This stable rate comes at a time when the cost of doing business is rising, giving employers greater certainty to plan for the future.
Building on the positive news of maintaining the organization’s lowest average assessment rate, WorkSafeNB will also issue $53.2 million in performance refunds to eligible employers in New Brunswick. Refunds over $1,000 will be issued by cheque. Refunds under $1,000 will be credited to employers’ WorkSafeNB accounts, lowering their 2026 premiums.
“Our strong funding position allows us to keep rates stable for New Brunswick employers while continuing to ensure a financially sustainable system for both workers and employers,” said Tim Petersen, WorkSafeNB’s president and CEO. “This rate stability along with the performance refund gives businesses the ability to reinvest in their people and operations.”
WorkSafeNB’s funded position of 152.9% on December 31, 2024, was driven by strong investment returns and the collective efforts of employers, workers and WorkSafeNB. While we have seen an increase in new injury costs, primarily due to rising costs of healthcare, our financial stability allows us to keep the average rate at $1.10 through a $0.31 subsidy drawn from the Accident Fund.
Safe workplaces and affordable rates are central to WorkSafeNB’s mandate and play an important role in supporting New Brunswick’s economy.
“Our Board is committed to ensuring that our province’s workers’ compensation system remains strong and sustainable,” said Mel Norton, Chair of WorkSafeNB’s board of directors. “By carefully managing the Accident Fund, we’re able to keep rates competitive for employers while also enhancing benefits for injured workers and their families.”
In 2024, wage-loss benefits for injured workers rose from 85% to 90% of net earnings, and the maximum annual earnings covered for injured workers also increased. As of July 1, 2025, benefits for surviving spouses were enhanced to 90% of net earnings. These changes mean greater financial security for injured workers and peace of mind for their families when it matters most.
“Our vision is clear: make New Brunswick the safest place to work,” Petersen added. “That means ensuring workers have the security they deserve, and employers have the stability they need. This balance is how we build a stronger, safer province for everyone.”
WorkSafeNB also announced no change in the rate charged to fund the Firefighters’ Compensation Act’s disability fund–maintaining the rate at $220 per firefighter.
The presentation for our Annual General Meeting is available here.
For more information on how WorkSafeNB determines assessment rates: WorkSafeNB | Assessment Rates
For more information on the performance refund: WorkSafeNB | Performance Refund