Worker Income Protection Benefit program extended in Ontario

Last week, Ontario extended its Worker Income Protection Benefit program, from the original end date of September 25, 2022, to March 31, 2023. This will continue to allow for qualified workers to receive three paid sick days for full and part-time positions. These days can be used by employees if they have COVID-related symptoms, to get vaccinated, or to care for others, without the requirement of a sick note. The program will be administered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), with employers being reimbursed up to $200 per day (for a maximum of $600 per worker). Employers apply through an online platform where they will need to submit an attestation along with other supporting documents. The application must be submitted within four months from the time of the leave and reimbursement will be done by mail.

It is important to note that if an employee is already eligible for paid sick days through their employer, the provincial program will not apply to those days, as it is meant for employees without a current leave benefit.