$185 per week is the standard non-earner benefit (NEB) for an eligible Ontario accident claimant who has a complete inability to carry on a normal life and does not qualify for income replacement. This benefit became optional on new policies from 1 July 2026. A renewal normally retains the previous optional coverages unless the named insured and insurer agree in writing to change them under Ontario Regulation 34/10.
Who can qualify
NEB is not simply a benefit for anyone who was unemployed on the accident date. The statutory complete-inability test is demanding, and the person must meet the regulatory criteria. Students, people out of work and caregivers may qualify depending on their facts, but a label such as “retiree” does not by itself establish eligibility. Income-replacement assistance can reduce the amount payable.
The waiting period and arithmetic
The standard waiting period is four weeks. In a full 104-week period after an accident, 100 payable weeks at $185 give $18,500, assuming the claimant remains eligible and has no offsets. Counting the four-week wait correctly leaves 100 paid weeks in an illustrative 104-week period. A representative chart therefore shows $0 for weeks 1–4, $8,880 by week 52 (48 paid weeks) and $18,500 by week 104 (100 paid weeks).
Coverage varies across policy situations
For a new policy, Aisha can compare the NEB price on her quote with her existing disability or other income support. For a renewing policy, inspect the benefit schedule before making a written election to change it. Passengers and pedestrians must check the priority rules and the specific insurer responsible for their claim; they do not automatically receive the vehicle owner's optional NEB. FSRA's guidance lists the optional benefit category.
