Sick Note Costs in New Brunswick: 2026 Guide
A sick note in New Brunswick costs $49 through MedLetter (same-day, online), $20-$50 at Moncton/Saint John walk-in clinics (2-4 hour wait), or $0-$40 through a family doctor (weeks-long wait in 2026). MedLetter is available 24/7 including weekends including weekends and holidays.
Sick Notes for New Brunswick Workers
New Brunswick workers at Irving Oil in Saint John, McCain Foods in Florenceville-Bristol, NB Power, or Cooke Aquaculture — MedLetter delivers same-day sick notes for $49. Skip the 4-6 hour wait at Saint John Regional Hospital or Dr. Everett Chalmers in Fredericton. Workers in Moncton, Dieppe, Miramichi, and Bathurst also covered.
New Brunswick's bilingual workforce (English and French) is fully served by MedLetter. Our physician documentation is accepted by all NB employers — from J.D. Irving to Atlantic Lottery to Ganong Bros.
Need Your Sick Note Right Now?
If you're reading this at 11 PM because your boss just texted asking for a doctor's note by tomorrow morning — we can help. MedLetter accepts requests 24/7. Most notes submitted before 3 PM are delivered same-day. Evening and weekend submissions are typically reviewed within hours. No appointment, no waiting room, no video call. Just fill out the 2-minute form and a licensed physician reviews your case.
New sick-note requests are temporarily paused while we review our service. We are not accepting new orders at this time.
Also serving: Ontario | Alberta | BC | New sick-note requests are temporarily paused while we review our service. We are not accepting new orders at this time.
Navigating the need for a sick note near me in New Brunswick can be a source of stress, especially when you're already feeling unwell. It's crucial for New Brunswickers to understand that sick notes are an uninsured service. This means your NB Medicare card does not cover medical documentation for employers or schools, and you will be paying out of pocket for this service. This guide will break down the true costs, hidden expenses, and convenient alternatives available in 2026, with a focus on helping you make an informed decision and highlighting how MedLetter.ca can simplify the process, ensuring you have the documentation you need for peace of mind.
Price Comparison by City
Understanding the direct and indirect costs associated with obtaining a sick note is essential. The table below provides a snapshot of typical walk-in clinic costs and wait times across various New Brunswick cities, alongside the transparent pricing offered by MedLetter.ca. Securing a sick note is a smart move for protecting your professional record, and MedLetter makes it easy.
| City | Walk-In Cost | Wait Time | Total Real Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moncton | $25-$40 | 2-4 hours | $65-$110 |
| Saint John | $25-$40 | 2-3 hours | $55-$95 |
| Fredericton | $25-$40 | 2-4 hours | $65-$110 |
| Bathurst | $20-$35 | 2-3 hours | $50-$85 |
| Miramichi | $20-$35 | 3-5 hours | $65-$120 |
| MedLetter (online) | $49 flat | 0 wait | $49 |
*Total real cost includes lost wages at NB average hourly wage (~$25). This calculation helps illustrate the financial impact beyond just the clinic fee, emphasizing why proactive documentation is a wise investment.
Hidden Costs in New Brunswick: Beyond the Clinic Fee
The sticker price for a sick note at a walk-in clinic is often just the tip of the iceberg. Several hidden costs can quickly inflate the "real" expense, especially for New Brunswick residents, making the $49 for a MedLetter note look like cheap insurance for your career.
Lost wages: This is often the most significant hidden cost, and a key reason why getting a sick note quickly is beneficial.
* NB minimum wage: As of 2026, the minimum wage in New Brunswick is $15.30/hour. If you spend an average of 3 hours waiting at a walk-in clinic, that's $45.90 in lost income. This time could be better spent recovering, or securing your MedLetter note in minutes.
* At average NB wage: The average hourly wage in New Brunswick hovers around $25. A 3-hour wait translates to $75 in lost wages, a substantial amount for many households. This doesn't even account for potential lost shift premiums for those working irregular hours or in industries like manufacturing or healthcare. This lost income highlights the value of a $49 online note from MedLetter.
Transportation: Getting to and from a clinic incurs costs that can vary widely depending on your location, adding to the expense of not having a sick note readily available.
* Gas in urban centers: In cities like Moncton, Saint John, or Fredericton, gas costs for a round trip can range from $5-$15, depending on vehicle efficiency and distance.
* Rural NB driving: For those in more remote areas, driving to the nearest clinic can mean a much longer journey, easily costing $20-$50 or more in fuel. Consider a resident of Sussex needing to drive to Saint John, or someone in Grand Falls heading to Edmundston. This travel time and expense further underscore the convenience and cost-effectiveness of MedLetter.ca.
* Parking: Downtown clinics, particularly in Fredericton or Saint John, often require paid parking, adding another $5-$10 to your expenses.
The "turned away" scenario: This frustrating situation is all too common in New Brunswick's healthcare landscape, and a risk you avoid with MedLetter.
* Walk-in clinics, especially in larger centers like Moncton and Fredericton, frequently reach capacity early in the day.
* If you arrive and are turned away, you've not only wasted valuable time but also incurred transportation costs (gas, parking) with absolutely nothing to show for it. This can mean having to repeat the entire process the next day, doubling your hidden costs and delaying your return to work or school, all while the risk of an undocumented absence grows.
Why a Sick Note is Always a Smart Move, Even When Not Strictly Required by Law
While New Brunswick law provides some protections regarding sick leave, smart employees still get documentation. Here's why having a sick note is always a professional and responsible choice, even for absences of 3 days or fewer.
Under the New Brunswick Employment Standards Act, employers generally cannot require a sick note for absences of 3 days or fewer. However, relying solely on this provision can expose you to unnecessary risks. A sick note, easily obtained from MedLetter.ca for $49, creates a paper trail that protects you long-term and prevents awkward conversations.
* Employer may not believe you were actually sick: Without documentation, your employer might question the legitimacy of your absence, potentially impacting their trust in you. A note from a licensed physician reviewed by MedLetter.ca provides clear evidence.
* Creates a pattern of undocumented absences that can be used against you later: A series of undocumented sick days, even for short periods, can accumulate and be viewed negatively during performance reviews or if future disciplinary actions arise. Protecting your record with a sick note from MedLetter is a proactive step.
* During probation or performance reviews, undocumented sick days look bad: When your performance is under scrutiny, every absence can count. A documented sick day shows professionalism and responsibility, contrasting sharply with an undocumented one.
* If you're ever in a wrongful termination dispute, documented absences protect you: In the unfortunate event of a dispute, a clear record of excused absences strengthens your position, demonstrating that you acted responsibly.
* Some employers track "unexcused" vs "excused" absences internally regardless of the law: Even if the law doesn't require a note, your employer might internally categorize absences. An "excused" absence with a note is always preferable to an "unexcused" one.
* Coworkers may resent you if they think you're faking without proof: Maintaining good relationships with colleagues is important. A sick note can prevent speculation and resentment, showing you're genuinely unwell and not taking advantage.
* Builds trust with your employer: Providing documentation, even when not legally compelled, demonstrates your commitment and respect for your workplace.
* Shows professionalism and responsibility: It's a simple act that reinforces your image as a conscientious employee.
* Prevents awkward conversations with HR: A sick note eliminates the need for uncomfortable questioning about your illness.
* Peace of mind knowing you're fully covered: For just $49, you get the assurance that your absence is properly documented, removing a layer of stress when you should be focusing on recovery.
Check your employment contract: While the Employment Standards Act sets a baseline, some employers have more generous policies regarding sick leave and documentation. Always review your individual employment agreement or company handbook. Even with generous policies, a note from MedLetter.ca offers an extra layer of protection.
* Unionized workers: If you are a member of a union, such as CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees), PSAC (Public Service Alliance of Canada), or NBNU (New Brunswick Nurses Union), your collective agreement may outline specific rules regarding sick notes and reimbursement. These agreements often provide more robust protections than the general Employment Standards Act, and a MedLetter note will always satisfy these requirements.
Clinic-by-Clinic Pricing (2026)
Here's a detailed look at typical pricing and wait times at various walk-in clinics across New Brunswick. Please note that prices can fluctuate, and wait times are estimates based on common experiences. For a guaranteed $49 and no wait, MedLetter is the clear choice.
Moncton: The largest city in New Brunswick, Moncton has several walk-in options, but demand is high.
* Moncton Medical Walk-In (Mountain Road): Typically charges $30-$40 for a sick note.
* After Hours Medical Clinic: Prices here can be slightly higher, ranging from $45-$60.
* Riverview Medical: Located just across the river, this clinic often charges $25-$35.
* Average wait: Expect 2-4 hours, especially during peak cold and flu season or early mornings, making MedLetter's 2-minute process incredibly appealing.
Saint John: New Brunswick's oldest city also faces significant demand for walk-in services.
* Market Square Medical: Generally charges $25-$35.
* Millidgeville Walk-In: Similar pricing at $25-$35.
* After Hours (Rothesay Ave): This clinic might charge $40-$55.
* Average wait: Typically 2-3 hours. Avoid the wait and get your note from MedLetter.ca.
Fredericton: The provincial capital has a few walk-in clinics, but wait times can still be substantial.
* Regent Mall Walk-In: Often charges $30-$40.
* Brookside Medical: Generally $25-$35.
* Average wait: Plan for 2-4 hours. For just $49, MedLetter offers a far more convenient solution.
Northern NB (Bathurst, Campbellton, Edmundston): Access to walk-in clinics in Northern New Brunswick is more limited, often with only one or two options per city.
* Pricing: When available, sick notes typically cost $20-$35.
* French-language service: Given the strong Francophone population, French-language service is often available and important for many residents.
* Wait times: Expect 2-3 hours, which can feel longer when options are scarce. For instance, residents of Caraquet might need to travel to Bathurst for a walk-in clinic, highlighting the value of MedLetter's online service.
Rural NB (Miramichi, Woodstock, Sussex, Sackville): Residents in these areas often face the greatest challenges, making MedLetter.ca an indispensable resource.
* Limited or no walk-in access: Many smaller towns have very limited or no dedicated walk-in clinics.
* Travel required: This often means driving 30-60 minutes or more to the nearest city with a walk-in option, incurring significant hidden costs.
* Pricing: When available, sick notes typically cost $20-$35.
* Miramichi: Despite being a larger rural center, wait times can still be significant, often 3-5 hours due to fewer options. Avoid the hassle and expense with a $49 MedLetter note.
Bilingual Considerations in New Brunswick
New Brunswick holds the unique distinction of being Canada's only officially bilingual province. This has important implications for sick notes and medical documentation.
* Francophone workers: Many Francophone workers, particularly in northern New Brunswick, may prefer or require documentation in French. Employers in these regions are often accustomed to receiving French-language documents.
* Employer acceptance: Some employers, especially federal government departments or larger provincial entities, accept notes in either official language (English or French).
* MedLetter's approach: MedLetter provides documentation in English. If you require a French-language note, it's crucial to specify this in your request, and MedLetter will do its best to accommodate or advise on alternatives.
* Major NB employers: Large New Brunswick employers like J.D. Irving Limited, McCain Foods, and the provincial government generally accept medical notes in either English or French, recognizing the province's bilingual nature.
Why a Sick Note is a Smart Investment for Your Career
The question of employer reimbursement for sick note costs is a common one in New Brunswick. While the law doesn't always mandate it, securing a sick note is a small investment in your professional standing.
* NB law: New Brunswick law does not explicitly require employers to reimburse employees for the cost of sick notes. This means the cost often falls to you, making the $49 MedLetter fee a wise expenditure for peace of mind.
* Collective agreements: However, many collective agreements, particularly for unionized workers (e.g., CUPE, PSAC, NBNU), include provisions for employer reimbursement of medical documentation costs. These are important clauses that protect workers from out-of-pocket expenses for employer-mandated notes, which a MedLetter note will always satisfy.
* Voluntary reimbursement: Some progressive employers in New Brunswick voluntarily reimburse employees for sick note costs. They view this as a benefit, a way to support employee well-being, and a tool for retention.
* Employer-mandated notes: A strong argument can be made that if your employer requires a sick note, they should bear the cost. Regardless, having a note from MedLetter ensures you're always prepared.
* NB Federation of Labour: The New Brunswick Federation of Labour has consistently advocated for employer-paid m