On January 1, 2012, the maximum assessable / insurable earnings will increase from $52,000 to $53,900. This figure is used by the Board to determine the maximum benefit payable to injured workers in 2012, and also represents the maximum assessable earnings per worker to be reported by employers on 2012 payrolls.

The maximum is set by the WCB at 135.7% of the Average Industrial Wage in Nova Scotia, and is effective 1 January each year. The 2012 maximum was based on information collected during the period April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011.

For example: suppose an injured worker earns $60,000 a year in wages. For the purposes of calculating an earnings replacement benefits, the WCB will use a wage figure of $53,900 for that worker, which is the insurable portion of the earnings. Similarly, for the worker's employer, wages would only be reported until such time as the $53,900 maximum for the year is reached. After that point, any wages would be considered wages in excess of the maximum, and should be left out of the employer's assessable wage calculation.

For more information please contact the WCB at assess@wcb.gov.ns.ca.