The Group Benefits Resource
for Owners, Managers, and HR Teams
Stay informed, avoid common mistakes, and make better benefits decisions with guidance from 20+ years in the field.
If you’re responsible for group benefits—whether you’re the owner, the office manager, or leading HR—this blog is for you. I’ve spent over two decades helping companies of all sizes in Ontario structure benefits that make sense for their people and their profits. Here, I’ll share the insights I’ve gathered, the trends I’m seeing, and the questions I hear every day. Think of this space as your behind-the-scenes guide to building benefits that attract talent, retain employees, and keep your business competitive.
How to Offer Competitive Benefits on a Seasonal Construction Timeline
Generic benefits solutions fail seasonal construction workers in Ontario. Discover how partnering with a construction-specialized broker creates custom programs with stable rates and long-term guarantees
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$42 Billion Housing Plan: 5 Ways Smart Construction Companies Will Profit from Build Canada Homes initiative…
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Group Benefits for HR and Management
How to Offer Competitive Benefits on a Seasonal Construction Timeline
Generic benefits solutions fail seasonal construction workers in Ontario. Discover how partnering with a construction-specialized broker creates custom programs with...
Read MoreThe 3-Minute Lifeline Your Construction Workers Never Knew They Needed
In the demanding world of construction, where physical challenges meet high-stress environments, supporting your team's mental health isn't just important—it's...
Read MoreMaster Your Next Group Benefits Switch: The Proven HR Method
Changing insurance providers usually triggers anxiety, uncertainty, and a rush of paperwork that leaves many HR professionals dreading the entire...
Read MoreBreaking Down Benefits Pooling: What Your Broker Never Told You
If you’ve ever felt blindsided by unexpected rate hikes during your group benefits renewal, you’re not alone. I've sat across...
Read MoreWSIB vs. Group Benefits Disability Insurance: Do You Need Both?
WSIB is mandatory for Ontario construction businesses, covering work-related injuries—but is it enough? This guide breaks down the key differences...
Read MoreSubstance Use in the Trades: How HR Can Help Without Fear, Judgment, or Stigma
Substance use in the construction industry is a growing concern, impacting safety, productivity, and employee well-being. HR leaders play a...
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Steffen deGraaf - Founder of AEC Benefits
I started AEC Benefits to make group benefits simple, cost-effective, and hassle-free. With 20+ years of experience, I know that a well-designed benefits plan helps businesses attract and retain top talent while keeping costs under control.
Unlike many providers, we have direct relationships with top insurers, eliminating middlemen to get you better pricing, faster service, and customized solutions.
And let’s be honest—great customer service is rare. That’s why we provide personalized support, clear guidance, and fast responses so you always know where you stand. Whether you’re setting up a new plan or optimizing an existing one, we make it easy.
Let’s build a smart, sustainable benefits program that works for your business and your employees.
Group Benefits for Business Owners
$42 Billion Housing Plan: 5 Ways Smart Construction Companies Will Profit from Build Canada Homes initiative…
Look, I've been watching the construction industry long enough to know when something big is happening. The government is just...
Read MoreThe Hidden Cost of Waiting Until Renewal for Your Company’s Group Benefits
What's inside... Is waiting for renewal to review your construction company’s group benefits costing you thousands? The answer is yes....
Read MoreGroup Benefits Ontario: How Construction Business Owners Can Choose the Right Plan
Choosing the right group benefits plan is one of the most important decisions a construction business owner can make. Get...
Read MoreEmployee Benefits as a Competitive Advantage in Ontario’s Hiring Market
Written by: Steffen deGraaf Group Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits Hiring in Ontario right now? Then you already know it’s a...
Read MoreThe Biggest Mistakes Business Owners Make with Group Benefits
Let’s talk about group benefits—the thing that every business owner knows they need but often get completely wrong. Too many...
Read MoreHow Group Benefits Can Help You Reduce Corporate Taxes in Canada
Written by: Steffen deGraaf Group Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits Let’s be real—nobody likes overpaying taxes, and as a business owner...
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Group Benefits for Employees
Ontario Employee Benefits: How to Ensure Your Construction Team Maximizes Their Coverage
Most construction companies invest in Ontario employee benefits to attract and retain employees—but what happens when employees don’t use them?...
Read MoreHow to Maximize Your Group Benefits Plan as an Employee
Written by: Steffen deGraaf Group Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits Introduction Your group benefits plan is more than just an add-on...
Read MoreYour Guide to Prescription Drug Coverage and Group Benefits in Ontario
Written by: Steffen deGraaf Group Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits Introduction Prescription drug coverage is one of the most important aspects...
Read MoreDoes Your Group Benefits Plan Cover Ozempic?
Does Your Group Benefits Plan Cover Ozempic? Written by: Steffen deGraafGroup Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits Ozempic, a prescription medication used...
Read MoreWhy Mental Health Support is a Must-Have in Employee Benefits Plans
In recent years, mental health has taken center stage in workplace discussions—and for good reason. As employees face increasing stressors...
Read MoreTop Questions from HR and Management!
Use our online enrollment tool or contact our support team for guidance.
Employees can use our app to submit claims digitally, ensuring fast processing.
We provide training on benefits administration, claims processes, and app usage.
Update employee information through the portal or contact our team for support.
Log in to the employer portal to access detailed reports and manage the plan.
Yes, we offer a range of wellness initiatives, including fitness reimbursements and mental health programs.
We provide onboarding sessions, digital guides, and app tutorials to educate employees.
HCSAs provide flexibility for employees to cover additional medical expenses not included in the main plan.
Coverage can often be extended during leave, but specific terms depend on the plan.
Yes, you can customize coverage for different roles or departments.
Our team ensures your plan meets all provincial and federal compliance standards.
Yes, we assist with communications, onboarding materials, and employee education.
We offer online guides, webinars, and one-on-one consultations to support HR teams.
Contact our dedicated HR support line or access FAQs in the portal for quick answers.
Top Questions from Employees!
Submit claims through our mobile app or desktop portal by uploading receipts and entering details. Reimbursement is typically processed within a few days.
You can track usage and balances for health, dental, and other benefits through the app in real time.
Yes, use the location services in our app to find nearby practitioners, pharmacies, and specialists covered under your plan.
Vision benefits may include coverage for eyeglasses, contact lenses, and regular eye exams to maintain optimal eye health.
Many plans include mental health services such as therapy or counseling sessions, covered either partially or fully.
An HCSA allows you to use a set allowance for expenses like physiotherapy, vision, or uncovered prescription costs.
Log in to our app or website portal to view plan details, balances, and coverage summaries.
Digital versions of your benefits card are available in the app for easy access at any time.
Reimbursements are often processed within 2-3 business days, depending on the claim type and if you have Banking set up.
Contact the support team through the app or your HR department for assistance in resolving claim issues.
Many plans include coverage for alternative therapies like massage, acupuncture, or chiropractic care.
Most of our plans offer travel insurance for emergencies while you’re abroad; check your policy for details.
Contact your HR department or use the app to connect with a support representative for answers.
Update your information directly in the app or notify your HR department for assistance.
