Hiring? The salary is only part of the cost. This calculator shows the employer contributions you must add on top of each salary in 2026.
What employers pay in 2026
| Contribution | Employer share | Maximum per employee |
|---|---|---|
| CPP | 5.95% (matches employee) | $4,230.45 |
| CPP2 | 4% (matches employee) | $416.00 |
| EI | 1.4 x employee premium (2.28%) | about $1,572 |
| QPP (Quebec) | 6.30% + 4% second tier | $4,895.30 |
| QPIP (Quebec) | 0.602% | $620.06 |
Quebec employers also pay the Health Services Fund (1.65% for small payrolls) and CNESST premiums. Several provinces charge an employer health tax above an exemption threshold, such as Ontario EHT for payrolls over $1 million.
Remitting source deductions
Employers withhold the employee portion of tax, CPP and EI, add their own share, and remit both to the CRA (and Revenu Québec in Quebec), usually by the 15th of the month after payday. Late remittances carry penalties of up to 10%.
FAQ
How much does a $60,000 employee really cost?
In Ontario, roughly $64,700 per year before benefits, vacation pay and workers’ compensation.
Are contractors included?
No. Independent contractors invoice you and pay their own CPP, so no employer contributions apply.
What does the employee take home?
See the paycheck calculator.