Understanding statutory holidays in Ontario is important for both employees and employers. These holidays are designated days when workers are typically entitled to a day off with pay. In this guide, we will cover the statutory holidays for Ontario in 2024 and 2025, explain what they mean, and provide information on calculating holiday pay. Whether you’re planning your year or managing payroll, this guide will help you stay informed.
What Are Statutory Holidays?
Statutory holidays, or “stat holidays,” are specific days recognized by the government where employees are usually entitled to take time off with pay. These holidays are set by either the federal or provincial government. In Ontario, employees often get a paid day off, and if they work on a holiday, they are eligible for additional pay or a substitute holiday.
Stat Holidays in Ontario for 2024
Here’s a list of statutory holidays for Ontario in 2024:
| Holiday Name | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1, 2024 | Monday |
| Family Day | February 19, 2024 | Monday |
| Good Friday | April 7, 2024 | Friday |
| Victoria Day | May 20, 2024 | Monday |
| Canada Day | July 1, 2024 | Monday |
| Labour Day | September 2, 2024 | Monday |
| Thanksgiving Day | October 14, 2024 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | December 25, 2024 | Wednesday |
| Boxing Day | December 26, 2024 | Thursday |
In addition to these, Remembrance Day (November 11) and Civic Holiday (the first Monday in August) are not statutory holidays in Ontario but may still be observed by some employers.
Stat Holiday Pay Eligibility
To be eligible for statutory holiday pay in Ontario:
- Employees must have worked their final scheduled shift before the holiday and their first shift after it.
- If an employee misses either shift, they need a valid reason to be eligible for holiday pay.
All types of employees, whether full-time, part-time, or on contract, can receive holiday pay as long as they meet these requirements.
How to Calculate Stat Holiday Pay
Here’s a simple method to calculate statutory holiday pay:
- Base Pay Calculation: Multiply the total regular hourly wages from the four weeks before the holiday by 20.
- Vacation Pay: Add the vacation pay due for those four weeks.
- Premium Pay: If you work on a stat holiday, earn 1.5 times your usual hourly rate for each hour worked.
Example Calculation:
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Regular Hourly Wage | $20 per hour |
| Hours Worked on Holiday | 8 hours |
| Base Holiday Pay | $20 × 8 = $160 |
| Premium Pay | 1.5 × $20 × 8 = $240 |
| Total Pay | $400 |
Conclusion
Understanding statutory holidays and your rights regarding holiday pay is crucial for both employees and employers. This guide provides essential information about Ontario’s statutory holidays for 2024 and 2025, how to determine eligibility, and calculate holiday pay. Keeping track of these holidays will help you stay compliant and plan effectively.
FAQ’s
What are statutory holidays in Ontario?
Statutory holidays in Ontario are designated days when employees are typically entitled to a day off with pay. These holidays are set by the provincial government and include key dates like New Year’s Day, Family Day, and Christmas Day.
How do I calculate my pay if I work on a statutory holiday in Ontario?
If you work on a statutory holiday, you are usually entitled to premium pay. This means you get 1.5 times your regular hourly rate for each hour worked on the holiday. Additionally, you can receive a substitute holiday or your regular pay if you prefer.
What do I need to be eligible for statutory holiday pay in Ontario?
To be eligible for statutory holiday pay, you must work your final scheduled shift before and your first shift after the holiday, unless you have a valid reason for missing these shifts. This applies to all types of employees, including full-time, part-time, and contract workers.