November 26, 2008 - Each year the WCB makes adjustments to certain benefits to apply the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI is a measure of changing price levels in Canada. When prices increase, the WCB increases benefits to reflect these price changes.

Each year these CPI payments have been issued as a lump sum payment. This process has now been automated for long term benefits including Permanent Impairment Benefits; Extended Earnings-Replacement Benefits; Survivor Pensions and Dependent Child Benefits. This means all long term retroactive payments and all new long term benefits processed since November 24 will include applicable CPI adjustments; CPI adjustments will be included with all long term monthly cheques starting January 2009. This will improve service by providing CPI increases to recipients of long term benefits on a more regular and timely basis.

Check out our Q&As and sample calculation sheet for more information about CPI benefits.