A workplace injury can leave you unsure of what to do next, especially when dealing with WSIB forms, deadlines, and decisions. This WSIB Survival Guide is designed to give injured workers in Ontario clear, practical first steps, explain your rights, and help you avoid common mistakes that can put your benefits at risk.
What to Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury
Report the Injury to Your Employer
- Notify your supervisor immediately. This triggers your employer’s duty to report to WSIB.
- Request a copy of the Form 7 (Employer’s Report of Injury).
Seek Medical Attention
- Visit a doctor, clinic, or ER right away.
- Inform them it’s a workplace injury so they can complete the Form 8 (Health Professional’s Report).
File Your WSIB Claim
- Submit a Form 6 (Worker’s Report of Injury/Disease) to WSIB as soon as possible.
- You can file online or by calling WSIB at 1-800-387-0750.
Document Everything
- Keep copies of all forms, medical records, and any emails/texts with your employer.
- Start a WSIB Claim Journal noting pain levels, treatments, correspondence, and return-to-work attempts.
Understanding WSIB Decisions and Your Rights
Types of Benefits WSIB May Offer:
- Loss of Earnings (LOE)
- Non-Economic Loss (NEL)
- Health Care Benefits
- Return-to-Work Support
Common Claim Denials:
- Injury not reported on time
- WSIB doesn’t believe the injury happened at work
- WSIB says you’re capable of working
You Have the Right to Appeal
Don’t panic if denied. You can appeal decisions, but strict deadlines apply (usually 6 months)
Why WorkAid Can Help You Win
Most workers try to navigate WSIB alone and risk losing their only appeal opportunity.
Here's what makes WorkAid different:
- We are not emotionally tied to your case.
- We handle your paperwork, deadlines, and WSIB correspondence.
- We help get you medical, psychological, and vocational support.
- We fight to get you maximum LOE benefits to age 65 when warranted.
We’ve successfully helped workers who were:
- Forced into unsuitable retraining programs
- Denied for psychological injuries or PTSD
- Pressured to return to unsafe workplaces
WSIB Pitfalls to Avoid
Missing Deadlines
- Most appeals must be filed within 6 months of a decision.
Returning to Work Too Soon
- Speak to your doctor. If you return before you’re ready, WSIB might reduce or end benefits.
Accepting Inappropriate Retraining Programs
- You can appeal retraining plans that don’t align with your education or abilities.
Filing Without Help
- Submitting appeals or forms with missing or incorrect information can result in denials you can’t reverse.
Book Your Free WSIB Strategy Session
Whether you’re just starting a claim or have already been denied, WorkAid is here to help.
- We take on full WSIB claims across Ontario.
- Virtual or phone-based consultations available.
- You may qualify for pro bono help or non-repayable grants if eligible.
This guide does not replace legal advice but provides a roadmap to get you started. Don’t go it alone. Let WorkAid help you protect your future.
