Sick Note vs. WSIB Claim in Ontario: Which Do You Need?
Workplace injuries in Ontario should go through WSIB, not just a sick note. Here's how to know which path to take.
## Sick Note vs. WSIB Claim in Ontario: Which Do You Need?
If you're injured at work in Ontario, the documentation path is different from a regular illness. Here's how to know which route to take.
### Sick Note vs. WSIB Claim
| Factor | Sick Note | WSIB Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Non-work illness/injury | Work-related injury/illness |
| Who pays | Your sick days/EI | WSIB (loss of earnings benefits) |
| Documentation | Physician's note | Form 8 + physician report |
| Benefits | 3 unpaid days + EI | 85% of net earnings |
| Duration | Limited | Until recovery or permanent |
### When to File a WSIB Claim
File a WSIB claim if your injury/illness was caused by:
- A workplace accident (slip, fall, equipment injury)
- Repetitive strain from work tasks
- Workplace exposure (chemicals, noise, dust)
- Work-related stress (in limited circumstances)
- Occupational disease
### Important: Don't Use a Sick Note for Work Injuries
Using sick days for a workplace injury means:
- You lose your sick days unnecessarily
- You miss out on WSIB's 85% wage replacement
- You have no record of the workplace hazard
- Your employer faces no accountability
### How MedLetter Fits In
MedLetter provides sick notes for **non-workplace** illness and injury. If your injury is work-related, you should file a WSIB claim instead.
**Get a sick note for non-workplace illness — [Start here](/get-started/sick_note)**