Earlier this year the federal government announced an important change to Employee Insurance (EI) benefits as part of its 2016 Federal Budget. Effective January 1st, 2017 , the waiting period for EI benefits (including sickness benefits) will be reduced from two weeks to one week. The number of weeks that EI benefits are paid will not be changing.
The may effect employers with a short term disability plan. If the plan has a waiting period of longer than 7 days, Employers will need to reduce the waiting period to 7 days or less. The Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CIHIA) were informed by Service Canada that a transition period will be offered allowing employers and benefit providers sufficient time to update their plans. We are waiting for complete details form the federal government before officially applying changes on January 1st, 2017.
If you have any questions please let us know, we will continue to update you once we receive more information.