Group Benefits 101 ...
What Employers, Employees & HR Need to Know
Looking for clear, practical guidance on group health insurance, employee benefits, and workplace coverage? Pick your category—owner, employee, or HR professional—and find tailored advice to fit your needs.
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Group Benefits FAQ's
Group benefits are employer-sponsored insurance plans that provide employees with coverage for healthcare, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance at reduced rates.
Eligibility varies by plan but typically includes full-time employees and sometimes part-time workers who meet minimum work hours.
Most plans cover healthcare, prescription drugs, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, with optional add-ons like wellness programs.
Group benefits often cost less and have simpler approvals compared to individual insurance policies.
Many plans include mental health services such as therapy or counseling sessions, covered either partially or fully.
Employer-paid health and dental premiums are non-taxable in Canada, but life and disability insurance premiums may be taxed as a benefit.
Most plans allow employees to continue coverage during leave, with arrangements for premium payments.
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.
Absolutely! A strong benefits package is a key factor in attracting and keeping top talent.
Steffen deGraaf
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.
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Top 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.