If you’re injured while working in Manitoba, you can get benefits and income from the Workers Compensation Board (WCB). First, you make a claim with the WCB. They will decide whether or not to accept your claim. If they accept your claim, then you collect your benefits. Finally, you return to work.

What is the WCB?

The WCB is a corporation that was created by the Canadian government. The purpose of the WCB is to provide financial help to people who are injured while working in Canada. If you work in a mandatory industry in Manitoba, you can make a claim with the WCB. The type of visa you have does not affect whether or not you can make a claim to the WCB. The mandatory industries are:

• agriculture and forestry
• mines, quarries and oil wells
• manufacturing
• construction
• transportation, communications and storage
• trade (retail)
• service
• public administration

The number of hours you work, or where you work does not affect whether or not you can make a claim with the WCB.

What medical benefits does the WCB pay for?

The WCB will pay for many of your medical expenses including:

• treatment given by a health care professional
• prescribed medication
• artificial limbs, braces, crutches, canes, or hearing aids

Please go to Workers Compensation Benefits for Injured Workers for a complete list of the benefits.

How much of your income does the WCB pay to you?

If you miss work because of your injury, the WCB pays you 90% of the money you take home (your net income). The WCB uses your tax forms to find out your income. If you earn less than 28,080$, the WCB pays you 100% of your net income. You don’t pay taxes on the money you get from the WCB.

Not all workers receive the same amount of money for the same injury. For example, the WCB will count how many dependents you have. If you have more dependents, then you get more money.

How do you make a claim?

When you’re injured at work, first tell your supervisor. Complete the Notice of Injury to Employer form. Keep one form for yourself, and give a copy to your supervisor. Complete this form in any language you want. The WCB will translate it if they need to. Your supervisor will report the injury to the WCB.

You also need to see a doctor. Tell the doctor that you were hurt at work. The doctor will complete some paperwork, and send it to the WCB.

Finally, call the WCB and tell them what happened. The person at the WCB will ask you questions, and take notes. You can request a translator. Alternatively, you can complete your claim online.

What can I do if my employer discriminates against me because I made a claim?

You might worry that your employer will fire you, reduce your pay or your hours, or change your schedule when you make a claim with the WCB. If this happens to you, you can file a complaint with the WCB. If your employer is found guilty, then they will be ordered to pay several thousands of dollars to the WCB. You can make a complaint at any time, but the sooner you make the complaint the better.

Call 204-888-8081, toll free 1-844-888-8081, email Compliance@wcb.mb.ca or submit the information online.

Being injured at work is a terrible situation, but the WCB is here to help! Please don’t be afraid to speak to your supervisor when you get injured. Please always go to the doctor if you’re hurt.

Work safe!
 
By Nastashya Wall
 
Sources: WCB Benefits Guide FAQ; Does my Business Need Coverage? WBC; Discriminatory Action FAQ, WCB; Calculation of wage loss benefits, WCB; and What to expect: The Claim Process for Injured Workers, WCB. Accessed May 8, 2023.