Sick Note Costs in Ontario: A Complete Breakdown
Getting a sick note in Ontario shouldn't break the bank, but costs vary significantly depending on where you go. Here's what you need to know.
Cost Comparison Table
| Provider | Cost | Wait Time | Availability |
|----------|------|-----------|--------------|
| Family Doctor | Free (OHIP) | 3-14 days for appointment | Weekdays only |
| Walk-In Clinic | $20-50 | 2-4 hours in clinic | Limited hours |
| Online Service (MedLetter) | $49 | same day delivery | 7 days/week |
| After-Hours Clinic | $40-75 | 1-3 hours | Evenings/weekends |
| Telehealth Ontario | Free (no notes issued) | 30-60 min wait | 24/7 |
Why Do Walk-In Clinics Charge for Sick Notes?
Under OHIP, a "sick note" or "doctor's note for work" is considered an uninsured service. This means:
- OHIP does not cover the cost of writing sick notes
- Clinics can set their own fees
- Fees range from $20 to $50+ depending on the clinic and location
- Some clinics in Toronto charge up to $75
The Hidden Costs of Getting a Sick Note
Beyond the direct fee, consider:
- Lost wages from taking time off to visit a clinic (average 3 hours)
- Transportation costs (TTC fare, parking, gas)
- Childcare costs if you need to arrange coverage
- Stress and discomfort of sitting in a waiting room while sick
Is It Worth Paying $49 for an Online Sick Note?
When you factor in the total cost of visiting a clinic:
- Clinic fee: $20-50
- Lost wages (3 hours): $45-90
- Transportation: $5-20
- Total real cost: $70-160
An online sick note at $49 with 1-4 hour delivery is often the most cost-effective option, especially when you're actually sick and shouldn't be sitting in a waiting room.
Can My Employer Make Me Pay for a Sick Note?
This is a grey area in Ontario:
- The ESA doesn't require employers to reimburse sick note costs
- Some collective agreements include reimbursement provisions
- The Ontario Medical Association has advocated for employer reimbursement
- If your employer requires a note, consider asking if they'll cover the cost
Free Alternatives
If cost is a barrier:
- Use your 3 ESA-protected sick days (no note required)
- Book with your family doctor (covered by OHIP, but longer wait)
- Check if your workplace has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Some community health centres offer free notes
MedLetter: $49 Sick Notes from CPSO Physicians
MedLetter offers same day sick notes from CPSO-registered physicians for a flat $49. No hidden fees, no clinic visits, no wait times. Delivered digitally in same day.
Related: [Sick Note Ontario — Complete City Guide](/sick-note-ontario) | [Ontario Sick Note Cost 2026](/blog/ontario-sick-note-cost-2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a sick note cost in Ontario?
Costs vary: walk-in clinics charge $20-50, telehealth apps charge $30-75, and MedLetter charges a flat $49 with same-day delivery included.
Are sick notes covered by OHIP?
No. Sick notes are considered uninsured services in Ontario. OHIP does not cover the cost of completing employer-requested medical forms.
Why do doctors charge for sick notes?
The Ontario Medical Association considers sick notes an uninsured service because they serve an administrative rather than medical purpose.
What is the cheapest way to get a sick note in Ontario?
Online services offer the best value when you factor in time saved. MedLetter charges $49 flat with no travel time, no waiting, and same-day delivery.