Surplus Distribution FAQsThe Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) manages a reserve fund designed to safeguard both employers and workers, while also promoting a stable workers compensation system. Currently, this reserve fund exceeds the target established in our funding policy, even after considering our business needs and priorities.In May of 2025, we are distributing surplus funds to the employers whose premiums fund the workers compensation system. Why is there a surplus? The surplus is credited to the WCB maintaining financial stability because of strong investment returns, and a stable reserve fund. Who is eligible to receive the surplus? Employers who fulfilled their payroll reporting responsibilities for 2024 and owed the WCB a premium for 2024 are eligible to receive a credit. Who will not receive the surplus? Employers who did not report their payroll for 2024 or who did not owe WCB premiums for 2024 are not eligible. However, if an employer subsequently submits their 2024 payroll, the WCB will process the credit which will be applied to their account. How much will each employer receive? The WCB is returning $122 million in surplus funds. Each eligible employer will receive a credit to their account of 50 per cent of their 2024 actual premium. What method will be used to determine how much each employer gets? The percentage is calculated against an employer’s 2024 premium. The premium is determined by multiplying the WCB rate ($0.95) by every $100 of payroll.Safety levies under an industry-based safety program are not included as part of the premium in the calculation used for the surplus distribution. When is the surplus being distributed? Eligible employers will receive a credit to their account, applied against their 2025 premium. These credits are reflected in their WCB Account Statements for May 2025. How often will there be a surplus distribution? Surplus distributions depend on many variables related to the WCB’s financial performance. The Board of Directors reviews the WCB’s funded position annually and may determine if a surplus distribution is warranted. This is laid out in the WCB’s funding policy. Is the surplus distribution taxable? Yes, the amount of the credit is taxable since it is a return of an employer’s 2025 tax deductible expense.For more information about surplus distribution, contact Assessment Services by visiting our contact page.
