WSIB clearance certificate

A WSIB clearance is a unique number issued by Ontario's Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) showing that a business, contractor or subcontractor is registered and up to date — current on premium payments and reporting. Public buyers in Ontario ask for one because without it, they can inherit your unpaid premiums.

What it proves and how long it lasts

Per the WSIB, only registered businesses in good standing can obtain a clearance, and a clearance is created automatically as long as you are up to date on payments and reporting. The clearance number is valid for all your contracts and valid for up to 90 days — you can request one immediately through WSIB online services, or by email within three to five business days. Most newly registered businesses that need a clearance at registration make an initial advance payment of $250, credited toward future premiums.

Why buyers demand it before work starts

Under section 141 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997, when a person retains a contractor (or subcontractor) with workers to execute work in a Schedule 1 or 2 industry, the person retaining the contractor is deemed to be the employer of those workers and is liable to pay any WSIB premiums the contractor owes — with recourse against the contractor. The WSIB is explicit that if you directly retain a contractor to perform construction work, you must obtain a clearance confirming the contractor is in good standing. That is why Ontario tenders routinely make a valid clearance a condition of contract award and of starting work, and buyers re-verify it when it expires on long projects.

Getting and keeping one as a bidder

Clearances are free to obtain and take minutes through WSIB online services; you can also sign up for automatic email delivery each time a clearance is created or renewed for your account. Keep the expiry date in view: because clearances end after up to 90 days, a clearance submitted at bid time may lapse before the project finishes, and buyers typically require a current one before authorizing work and again before final payment.

Common questions

What if I'm a sole proprietor with no employees?

Independent operators — businesses with no employees other than the registered owner(s) — outside of construction might not be obligated to register with the WSIB and therefore may not be eligible for a clearance. The WSIB publishes a worker/independent-operator status questionnaire for rulings. Out-of-province contractors working in Ontario generally need to show good standing with their own provincial workers' compensation board or equivalent coverage.

Is WSIB clearance the same across Canada?

No — WSIB is Ontario's workers' compensation authority. Other provinces run their own boards (each with an equivalent clearance or letter of good standing), so a WSIB clearance only evidences Ontario coverage.

Does every tender require one?

Ontario public buyers almost always require it for construction, and commonly for other on-site services. Check the tender's insurance and compliance section; the requirement is usually framed as a mandatory criterion or a condition of award.

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