Current as of October 2026. Government programs, tax rules and prices change. Check the official sources listed at the end of this page before making a decision, and confirm details with a licensed advisor.
Identify Applicable Employment and Contract Rules
Identify the applicable employment jurisdiction, agreement and circumstances. Statutory minimums are not necessarily the full entitlement. Common-law or contractual rights may require separate legal assessment. The employee's last working day and the lawful end of benefit obligations may differ.
Benefits During Statutory Notice and Other Entitlements
For Ontario employment covered by the ESA, benefit-plan contributions must be maintained as required during the statutory notice period, including the corresponding period addressed by termination pay rules. Other entitlements may extend further. Obtain employment advice on the complete obligation rather than treating this minimum as the final answer.
Confirm Coverage End Dates With the Insurer
Ask the provider which coverages can continue and on what basis. Employment obligations and insurer terms need to be reconciled; one does not automatically override the other in practice. Obtain specific advice if the employer's obligation extends beyond what the contract will insure.
Conversion and Individual Coverage Options
Group life or other coverage may include conversion or continuation options with deadlines. Individual replacement insurance may require a separate application. Provide accurate information promptly, but do not promise acceptance or equivalent terms without provider confirmation.
Communicate Changes and Claims Deadlines
Explain the confirmed end date, contribution arrangements and relevant claims-submission deadlines. Expenses incurred after coverage ends may be treated differently from eligible expenses incurred earlier but submitted later. Keep the communication consistent with the actual plan and legal advice.
Coordinate Legal and Benefits Advice
Coordinate employment counsel, the benefits advisor, insurer and payroll team before finalizing the change. GroupBenefitPlans.ca can connect employers with a benefits professional but does not determine legal entitlements or administer terminations. Document the instructions and confirmation received.
Sources and further reading
GroupBenefitPlans.ca is a referral and information service. Advice and coverage are provided by the licensed professional and relevant providers. An enquiry does not activate insurance.