Secure Your WCB Coverage Today for Mandatory Industries

When running a business, ensuring the safety and security of your workers is a top priority. Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to provide benefits and services that help injured workers recover and return to work safely. In Alberta, businesses operating in industries where workers’ compensation coverage is mandatory must comply with specific rules to avoid penalties and ensure their team is protected. 

👉🏻Who Needs Workers’ Compensation Insurance? 

If you operate in a mandatory industry, you are legally required to open a Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta account within 15 days of hiring your first worker. 

A worker is defined as anyone employed in the following capacities: 

• Full-time, part-time, or temporary employment, including casual and foreign workers. 

• Contract or subcontract work, unless they maintain their own WCB account. 

• Volunteer or unpaid work, including family members, if you’re a for-profit employer in a compulsory industry. 

It’s important to note that for non-profits or employers in exempt industries, unpaid workers such as volunteers won’t have automatic coverage unless voluntary coverage is purchased. 

👉🏻Voluntary Coverage for Exempt Industries 

Not all industries are legally required to have workers’ compensation insurance. These industries, referred to as exempt industries, can opt to purchase voluntary coverage. While it’s not mandatory, providing this coverage ensures your workers are protected in case of injuries and reflects your commitment to their safety. 

If you’re unsure whether your industry is exempt, you can: 

• Apply for a WCB account to determine your coverage requirements. 
• Contact WCB-Alberta directly for clarification. 

👉🏻Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply with workers’ compensation regulations can lead to significant penalties. Here’s what you could face: 

• Late registration: You may be charged retroactive premiums and held accountable for the full cost of claims incurred while unregistered. 

• Late filing: A penalty may apply for not filing your earnings on time. 

• Under-reporting: Misreporting your payroll or underpaying premiums can result in an 8% penalty. 

• Unpaid balance: A 1% monthly penalty will apply to any overdue balances. 

• Collection actions: Failure to address unpaid balances can lead to legal proceedings initiated by a collection officer. 

👉🏻How to Stay Compliant 

• Report your earnings accurately: Use WCB’s myWCB online services to submit your earnings report. 

• Revisit your estimates: Revise your assessable earnings estimates before December 31 to avoid penalties. 

• Maintain active communication: If you face payment challenges, arrange a payment plan to prevent escalation. 

✅Conclusion 

Worker coverage is not just a legal requirement; it’s a cornerstone of a responsible business. Providing workers’ compensation insurance safeguards your workforce, mitigates financial risks, and fosters a safer workplace. Whether you’re in a mandatory or exempt industry, understanding and complying with WCB-Alberta guidelines is essential. 

For more information or to open a WCB account, Visit Our Office or Contact Us at (587) 586-9283