2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation
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2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation
2021 Bulletin
on Manitoba Social Legislation
We are proud to present the first edition of the Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation. It outlines the terms and conditions of the
various federal and provincial social assistance programs in effect this year. These programs provide basic financial and physical
security for the entire population.
Over the years, SSQ Insurance has evolved in response to social changes, customer needs and the realities faced by the organizations
and individuals it insures. Through changing times, one thing has remained constant: our desire to preserve the collective spirit
and solidarity, values that have, since the very beginning, guided our actions and continue to inspire us every day.
Offering solutions that complement these public programs is one of our missions. Every day, we find innovative solutions to better
serve the interests of our plan members and customers. Pertinent and adapted products, excellent and attentive service, an
unwavering devotion to reinvention: this is how our Company continues to help its customers plan their future and protect their
financial assets throughout their lives.
With 2020 being marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and its significant impact on the economic, financial and health
fronts, this year’s edition of our bulletin includes information on the measures temporarily put in place to support
the population during this crisis. Some of these measures may thus change depending on how the health and
economic situation unfolds. It is therefore always advisable to check the updated information on the websites of
the respective ministries and agencies.
Table of Contents
1. Employment Insurance Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2. Canada Child Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3. Manitoba Child Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
4. Workers’ Compensation Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
5. Employment Standards Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
6. Automobile Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
7. Canada Pension Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8. Old Age Security Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
9. Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
10. Employment and Income Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
11. 55 PLUS Program - A Manitoba Income Supplement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
12. Tax Impact of Group Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Return to the Table of Contents
Employment and Social Development Canada
1. Employment Insurance Act
Canadian workers and their employers pay premiums to be eligible for coverage under the Employment Insurance Act. This coverage
allows them to receive some income in the event of job loss, parental leave or to support a critically ill family member.
Contributions
2021 2020
Yearly maximum insurable earnings $56,300 $54,200
Employee premium rate per $100 of gross insurable earnings: 1.58% 1.58%
Maximum annual employee premium $889.54 $856.36
Employer premium rate per $100 of gross insurable earnings
2.212% 2.212%
(1.4 times the employee’s contribution):
Maximum annual employer premium $1,245.36 $1,198.90
Types of Benefits
Different types of benefits are offered to Canadians depending on their personal circumstances.
Regular Benefits
Employment Insurance (EI) provides regular benefits to people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own (for example,
due to shortage of work, seasonal layoffs, etc.) and who are available for and able to work, but can’t find a job. To be eligible,
individuals must have worked between 420 and 700 hours* during the reference period.
Sickness Benefits
Sickness benefits paid to individuals who are unable to work because of sickness, injury, or quarantine. To be eligible, workers
must accumulate 600 insurable hours* and have lost more than 40% of their earnings.
Regular and Sickness Benefits
Maximum insurable annual earnings in 2021 $56,300
Waiting period before receiving benefits 7 days
Benefits 55% of the average insurable salary over the past 52 weeks
Maximum weekly benefit $596
Duration of benefits Regular
From 14 to 45 weeks, based on the unemployment rate in the region
Sickness
A maximum of 15 weeks
A Closer Look at Group Insurance
Integrated and Non-Integrated Plans
Usually, social programs are first payers. Short-term and long-term disability insurance coverage serve as a complement
to the basic protection offered by government programs.
Working While on Claim
With Working While on Claim, individuals can keep receiving part of their EI benefits and all earnings from their job. This means,
they may keep 50 cents of their EI benefits for every dollar earned, up to 90% of the weekly insurable earnings used to calculate
the benefits. Any amount earned beyond this threshold is deducted dollar for dollar from their benefits.
For more information: Employment Insurance – Working While on Claim
* Caution: Temporary COVID-19 relief measure.
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 1Return to the Table of Contents
Variable Best Weeks
The EI benefits rate is based on the best paid weeks of the previous year. The number of weeks used in the calculation varies
from 14 to 22 depending on the unemployment rate in the economic region where the claimant resides.
For more information: Variable Best Weeks
COVID-19 Measure
Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) for people who do not qualify for regular EI benefits
The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are directly affected by
COVID-19 and are not entitled to EI benefits. Eligible individuals could receive $1,000 ($900 after taxes withheld) for a 2-week
period. If their situation continues past 2 weeks, individuals will need to apply again every 2 weeks, up to a total of 13 eligibility
periods (26 weeks) between September 27, 2020 and September 25, 2021. Specific eligibility criteria apply depending on the
circumstances of the applicants. Learn more
Temporary easing of eligibility requirements for regular benefits
Since September 27, 2020, temporary changes have been made to the eligibility requirements for EI benefits. These changes will
be in effect for one year:
• A minimum unemployment rate of 13.1% applies to all regions across Canada since August 9, 2020:
- if your region’s unemployment rate is higher than 13.1%, the higher actual rate is used to calculate benefits.
- this means you can receive at least 26 weeks of regular benefits.
• You only need 120 insured hours to qualify for benefits because you’ll get a one-time credit of:
- 300 insured hours to help you meet the required 420 insured hours of work for regular benefits.
- 480 insured hours to help you meet the required 600 insured hours of work for sickness or caregiver benefits.
• You’ll receive at least $500 per week before taxes but you could receive more.
• If you received the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the 52-week period to accumulate insured hours will be extended.
Caregiving Benefits
Employment Insurance offers three types of caregiving benefits. To be eligible, workers must have accumulated at least 600 insurable
hours* and have lost more than 40% of their earnings. The benefits are equal to 55% of the average insurable salary over the
last 52 weeks, up to a maximum of $596 per week. The waiting period before receiving benefits is seven days.
Benefits Maximum weeks Person receiving care
payable1
Family caregiver benefit for children 35 weeks A critically ill or injured person under 18
Family caregiver benefit for adults 15 weeks A critically ill or injured person 18 or over
Compassionate care benefits 26 weeks A person of any age who requires end-of-life care
1
Benefits can be paid for up to 52 weeks following the date the person is certified by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner as critically ill or injured
or in need of end-of-life care.
Canada Training Benefit
In late 2020, the federal government introduced financial assistance to help Canadians between the ages of 25 and 64 pay for
training. This support includes:
• A non-taxable training credit to help Canadians with the cost of training. Eligible workers accumulate a credit balance at a rate
of $250 per year, up to a lifetime maximum of $5,000. The credit can be used to refund up to half the costs of taking a course or
enrolling in a training program.
• An Employment Insurance Training Support Benefit that provides workers with up to four weeks of income support paid at 55% of
average weekly earnings to help workers on training leave and not receiving their regular paycheque cover their living expenses
such as rent, utilities and groceries.
• Leave provisions to protect workers’ ability to take time away from work to pursue training.
The Canada Training Benefit will cover up to 50% of direct costs of training. For more information on this measure, refer to the
following page on the 2019 Federal budget website: The Canada Training Benefit.
For more on the improvements and changes made to different Employment Insurance programs, see Employment Insurance
– Recent improvements and overview.
*Caution: Temporary COVID-19 relief measure.
SSQ Insurance
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EI Maternity and Parental Benefits
EI maternity and parental benefits provide financial assistance to:
• people who are away from work because they’re pregnant or have recently given birth
• parents who are away from work to care for their newborn or newly adopted child
Eligibility Criteria
• Be pregnant or have recently given birth when applying for maternity benefits.
• Be a parent caring for a newborn or newly adopted child when applying for parental benefits.
• Have experienced a drop in earnings of more than 40% of income for at least one week.
• Have accumulated 600 hours* of insurable employment in the last 52 weeks preceding the start of the claim, or since the start
of the last claim, whichever is the shorter period.
Maternity Benefits
Maternity benefits are paid to biological mothers, including surrogate mothers, who cannot work because they are pregnant or
have recently given birth. They cannot be shared between the two parents. The person receiving maternity benefits may also be
entitled to receive parental benefits.
Parental Benefits
Parental benefits are paid to the parents of a newborn or newly adopted child. Parents must choose between two options: Standard
parental benefits or extended parental benefits. Once they start receiving parental benefits, they cannot change options.
Parents sharing benefits must each choose the same option. They can receive their weeks of benefits at the same time or one
after another. Each parent must submit their own application
Benefits Maximum Weeks Benefit Rate Weekly Maximum
Maternity Up to 15 weeks 55% $595
Parental
Standard Up to 40 weeks
One parent cannot receive more than 35 55% $595
weeks of standard benefits
Extended Up to 69 weeks
One parent cannot receive more than 61 33% $357
weeks of extended benefits
COVID-19 Measure
Since September 27, 2020, temporary changes have been made to the eligibility requirements. Claimants only need 120 insurable
hours to qualify for benefits because they will get a one-time credit of 480 insured hours. For maternity and standard parental
benefits, they will receive at least $500 per week before taxes. For extended parental benefits, they’ll receive at least $300 per week
before taxes.
Additional Information
Employment Insurance benefits and leave
*Caution: Temporary COVID-19 relief measure.
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 3Return to the Table of Contents
Canada Revenue Agency
2. Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children
under 18 years of age. The CCB may include the child disability benefit, where applicable.
Primary Caregiver
The person primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child should apply for the CCB. The person primarily responsible
for the care and upbringing of the child is someone who:
• Supervises the child’s daily activities and needs
• Sees to it that the child’s medical needs are met
• Arranges for child care when necessary
When parents live together in the same household as the child, the Canada Revenue Agency automatically considers the mother
to be the person primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child. It is therefore up to the mother to submit the
application for benefits. If however, the father is the person primarily responsible for the care and upbringing of the child, he
must append a note from the mother with his application. The father then becomes the designated person primarily responsible
for the care and upbringing of all the children in the household.
In the case of same-sex parents living together in the same household as the child, either of the parents may apply for all children
in the household.
In the case of shared custody on a more or less equal basis, both parents can be deemed to be primarily responsible for the
child’s care and upbringing. Each eligible individual will get 50% of the payment he or she would have received if the child lived
with him or her full time.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the CCB, the individual primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing must:
• Live with the child who is under age 18
• Be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
• Satisfy any one of the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian citizen
- Be a permanent resident
- Be a protected person
- Be a temporary resident of Canada for the last 18 months and have a valid permit as of month 19
- Be an Indigenous person who meets the definition of "Indian" under the Indian Act
Benefits
The Canada Revenue Agency uses the information in the income tax and benefit return to calculate the CCB payments. In order
to receive the benefit, the primary caregiver must file an income tax return every year, regardless of whether or not they earned
any income. The primary caregiver’s spouse or partner must also file an income tax return every year.
Benefits are paid on a monthly basis, from July to June of the following year. The amount is recalculated in July based on the
information provided in the income tax return of the previous year. The information used to calculate the benefit is:
• The number of children living with the individual primarily responsible for their care and upbringing
• The age of the children concerned
• The adjusted family net income (AFNI), which appears on line 236 of the income tax return and to which is added the net income
of the spouse or partner, where applicable
• The eligibility of a child for the child disability benefit
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 4Return to the Table of Contents
Basic Benefit – July 2020 to June 2021
The CCB is calculated as follows:
• $6,765 per year ($563.75 per month) for each eligible child under the age of 6
• $5,708 per year ($475.67 per month) for each eligible child aged 6 to 17
The amount of CCB is reduced when the adjusted family net income (AFNI) is over $31,711. The reduction is calculated as follows:
Number of children Family income from $31,711 to $68,708 Family income over $68,708
1 child 7% of the income $2,590 + 3.2% of the income
2 children 13.5% of the income $4,995 + 5.7% of the income
3 children 19% of the income $7,029 + 8% of the income
4 children or more 23% of the income $8,509 + 9.5% of the income
Basic amount of the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) $2,886 per eligible child
How and When to Apply?
The individual primarily responsible for the child’s care and upbringing must submit a CCB application as soon as possible, namely:
• As of the child’s birth
• As soon as the child lives with them full time
• As soon as the spouse or partner satisfies the eligibility conditions
There are three ways to submit a CCB application:
• The Automated Benefits Application, possible through the partnership with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and the provincial vital
statistics office. The CRA uses the information on the child’s provincial birth registration form to determine the primary caregiver’s
eligibility for benefits and tax credits
• The CRA’s My Account service: The primary caregiver must have a valid account and apply for child benefits online.
• Complete the RC66 Canada Child Benefits Application available online.
Additional Information
Canada Child Benefit
Manitoba Ministry of Families
3. Manitoba Child Benefit
The Manitoba Child Benefit (MCB) provides monthly benefits to lower income families with dependent children in their care. It
also provides parents with additional assistance to help with the costs of prescription eyeglasses for their children. Low-income
families may be eligible for up to $35 monthly per child.
Eligibility
• Be a resident of Manitoba
• Have at least one dependent child under the age of 18
• In receipt of Canada Child Benefits for dependent children
• Meet the family income criteria
• Cannot be a recipient of Employment and Income Assistance unless receiving only the health benefits portion of EIA
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Benefit Amount
Low-income families may be eligible for up to $420 tax free each year for every child. Families with an income between $15,000
and $20,000 receive a partial benefit.
Benefit Levels and Allowable Income Ranges
Number of Maximum Yearly MCB Benefits Maximum Benefits Paid at or Partial Benefits Paid with
Children Under Below these Annual Family Annual Family Incomes of
18 Years of Age Incomes
1 $420 $15,000 $15,001 to $20,435
2 $840 $15,000 $15,001 to $20,435
3 $1,260 $15,000 $15,001 to $20,435
4 $1,680 $15,000 $15,001 to $22,242
5 $2,100 $15,000 $15,001 to $24,052
6 $2,520 $15,000 $15,001 to $25,864
Children’s Opti-Care Program
For families who get the MCB, the average Children’s Opti-Care Program benefit is approximately $84 per child, per year. If the
child has special vision needs, the benefits may be more.
Claims for this program can be made once every three years. If the child’s prescription changes or the child outgrows his or her
frames, parents may be able to claim more often.
Details and Application
Employment and Income Assistance – Manitoba Child Benefit
Workers’ Compensation Board of Manitoba
4. Workers’ Compensation Act
Workers’ Compensation
Workers who sustain a work-related injury are compensated for lost wages and, if applicable, receive a lump-sum payment for
permanent impairment. There is no limit or ceiling on workers’ earnings covered by the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) of
Manitoba.
Disability Date Benefit Payor
Date of injury 100% of regular earnings Employer
First day after the accident 90% of net earnings* WCB
* The WCB determines the average net earnings by subtracting probable deductions for income tax, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions
and Employment Insurance premiums from the worker’s average earnings. The WCB pays 100% of the take-home pay for workers who earn at
least the legislated minimum annual earnings.
2021 Average Premium Rate
The rate is set at $0.95 for every $100 of company payroll. The Manitoba WCB has maintained this rate since 2018.
SSQ Insurance
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Permanent Impairment Awards
The amount of the lump-sum award is based on the degree of impairment and the amounts provided for in the law.
Calculating Impairment Awards
When the WCB determines that a worker has suffered a permanent injury, it will pay the worker a lump-sum permanent impairment
award according the following criteria:
• Impairment of 1% or greater but less than 30%: $1,500 for each full 1% of impairment
• Impairment of 30% or greater: $45,000 plus $1,810 for each full 1% of impairment in excess of 30%
The workers’ age is not taken into account when calculating a permanent impairment award. These benefits are indexed in
accordance with Regulation 132/2020 on the adjustment of benefits.
Death Benefits
The spouse or common-law partner of a worker who dies as a result of a work injury receives a lump-sum payment and a monthly
allowance equal to 90% of the worker’s average net earnings for 5 years, or until the youngest child reaches 18 years of age (less
amounts paid to other dependents). Dependent children and other dependents receive a monthly allowance.
These benefits are indexed in accordance with Regulation 132/2020 on the adjustment of benefits.
Surviving Spouse
The spouse is entitled to the following benefits:
• A lump-sum payment of $88,150 which may be converted into a tax-free annuity (regular monthly payments) administered by
the WCB.
• In most cases, a monthly payment equal to 90% of the deceased worker’s net average earnings before the date of death (less
any amount payable to another dependant) for a period of 5 years or until their youngest child turns 18 (special provisions
apply to dependent spouses or common-law partners over the age of 60). The benefits continue for the full period, even where
there is a change in marital status.
• In some cases, the WCB will provide the surviving spouse with vocational rehabilitation services to help them return to the
workforce, become self-sufficient, or increase their workforce participation to become self-sufficient.
• In addition, either the spouse or the worker’s estate is entitled to an immediate payment of $13,570 that may be used to help
with expenses.
Dependent Children
Dependent children of the deceased worker also receive:
• A monthly payment of $480 for each child under 18 years of age.
• A monthly payment may be paid to dependent children 18 years of age or older if they are continuing their education. This benefit
will continue for a reasonable period of time.
Other Benefits
Medical Aid
The WCB pays for medical expenses related to the injury, such as medication, hospital or clinic fees, physical therapy, occupational
therapy, chiropractor, medical devices, hearing aids, etc. These costs are not covered by the public healthcare system.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Workers or their surviving spouses may also be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services, including return-to-work services.
Additional Information
Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 7Return to the Table of Contents
Labour & Regulatory Services
5. Employment Standards Code
The Employment Standards Code provides the minimum standards for most employees working in Manitoba. It sets out the rights
and responsibilities of employees and employers in most Manitoba workplaces, including the minimum wage, hours of work limits,
public holidays, vacation and some types of leave, as well as layoffs and termination of employment.
Job-Protected Leaves
Employees who have worked for an employer for at least two consecutive weeks may take job-protected leaves of absence each
year to meet family obligations or for personal events. Here is an overview of the conditions surrounding these leaves based on
the situation.
Leaves Eligibility Maximum Length Conditions
Family Leave Worked at least 30 days for 3 days per year Unpaid
the same employer
Bereavement Worked at least 30 days for Up to 3 days Unpaid
Leave the same employer
Long-term Leave Worked at least 90 days for Up to 17 weeks within a Unpaid
for Serious Injury the same employer period of 52 weeks Provide a doctor’s certificate
or Illness Be unable to work for 2 weeks evidencing the inability to work
Compassionate Worked at least 30 days for the Up to 28 weeks Unpaid
Care Leave same employer Obligation to provide employer
Care for or support a critically with a doctor’s certificate
ill family member who has a Employees can take the leave in
significant risk of death within one or two periods that must be
the next 26 weeks at least one week long
Domestic Violence Worked at least 90 days for the Option 1: up to 10 days in Up to 5 days of paid leave. The
Leave same employer consecutive or intermittent days other days of leave are unpaid.
For the employee or an in a 52-week period Employees can take the leave
employee’s dependent Option 2: up to 17 weeks in in any order that meets their
a 52-week period in one individual circumstances
continuous period
Critical Illness An employee who is a family Up to 37 weeks of leave within Unpaid
Leave member of a critically ill child a 52-week period to provide care Give employer at least one pay
under 18 years old who has or support to a critically ill child period of notice before the leave
worked for the same employer under 18 years old and provide a doctor’s certificate
for at least 30 days Up to 17 weeks of leave within as soon as possible
An employee who is a family a 52-week period to provide care Employees can take the leave in
member of a critically ill adult or support to a critically ill adult one or more periods, however,
who has worked for the same each period must be at least
employer for at least 90 days 1 week long
Child Death or Worked at least 30 days for the Up to 52 weeks if the child has Unpaid
Disappearance same employer disappeared as a result of a Employees must give written
Leave Be the parent of a child under crime notice to their employer of their
18 years old who has died or Up to 104 weeks if the child has intention to take leave as soon as
disappeared as the probable died as a result of a crime possible
result of a crime The employer may require the
employee to provide reasonable
proof
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 8Return to the Table of Contents
(Continued)
Leave Eligibility Maximum Length Conditions
Maternity Leave Worked at least 7 consecutive Up to 17 consecutive weeks Unpaid
months for the same employer Leave can begin up to 17 weeks
before the expected date of the
birth
Generally, the leave will end
17 weeks after it began
Employees must give their
employers at least 4 weeks’
written notice before the leave
They must also provide a
medical certificate indicating the
estimated date of delivery
Parental Leave Worked at least 7 consecutive Up to 63 weeks Unpaid
(birth or adoption) months for the same employer Leave can begin up to 18 months
after the birth or adoption of
a child
Employees must give their
employers at least 4 weeks’
written notice before the leave
The leave must be taken over
one uninterrupted period
Note: The law provides for other job-protected leaves of absence, including for reservists, organ donations and public health emergencies
(e.g., COVID-19).
Annual Vacation
Employees must receive at least two weeks of vacation per year for the first four years of employment, and a minimum of three
weeks of vacation after the fifth consecutive year.
For each week of vacation, employees are entitled to 2% of the wages earned in that year, meaning that, employers may put
vacation pay on every cheque, or they may choose to pay it at the time of the vacation leave.
Minimum Wage
Since October 1, 2020, the minimum wage is $11.90 per hour.
Regular Work Week
A standard work week is 40 hours, i.e., eight hours per day. Employees who work more than the standard week must be paid a
wage with a 50% premium (time and a half). The law provides for certain exceptions.
Public Holidays
On statutory holidays, most employees are entitled to time off with pay based on their average daily wage. When a general holiday
falls on a Saturday or Sunday that an employee does not normally work, the employee must get the next regular workday off with
general holiday pay.
When a general holiday falls on a weekday that the employee does not normally work, the employer must give the employee a
normal workday off with general holiday pay. This must be given before the employee’s next vacation, or at another time agreed
to by the employee.
Additional Information
Employment Standards
SSQ Insurance
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Manitoba Public Insurance
6. Automobile Insurance
The car insurance system in Manitoba is public and entirely no-fault. Drivers are covered for $200,000 for personal injury or for
property damage, or for having caused a death, when their responsibility has been established.
Personal Injury Protection Plan – March 1, 2020
Coverage Terms and Conditions
Third-party liability $200,000 for any one accident
Optional coverage for larger amounts available
Income replacement 90% of net income, subject to a maximum insurable yearly income of $101,000
Wait period: 7 days
Personal care assistance expenses Monthly maximum $4,934
for non-catastrophic injuries Receipts required
Caregiver weekly indemnity 1 dependent: $476 (weekly)
2 dependents: $527 (weekly)
3 dependents: $579 (weekly)
4 dependents or more: $626 (weekly)
Care expense reimbursement Maximum weekly amounts (receipts required):
1 dependent: $123
2 dependents: $164
3 dependents: $206
4 dependents or more: $248
Help hired for a family business Weekly maximum: $821
Lump-sum indemnity for a $820 (minimum)
permanent impairment $164,181 (maximum)
(non-catastrophic injuries)
Lump-sum indemnity for $259,245
permanent impairment
(catastrophic injuries)
Lump-sum indemnity Minors, kindergarten to grade 8: $5,581
(minors and students) Grade 9 to Grade 12: $10,343
Post-secondary studies: $20,690
Funeral expenses Maximum of $8,951 (receipts required)
Grief counselling: maximum of $3,743 per person
Payments to family Spouse or partner: $65,674 to $505,000
Disabled dependent: $28,731
Non-dependent child or parent $14,625
Disability benefits 75% of the average gross weekly earnings, minus the weekly total of wage loss
payments from all other sources, for a maximum of $740 weekly
Benefits are paid for a maximum of 15 weeks
Wait period: 7 days
Other benefits and allowances are provided for depending on the circumstances of the affected road users.
SSQ Insurance
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Death Benefits
Manitoba’s government-run auto insurance plan provides benefits for a surviving spouse and children.
Overview of amounts payable in the event of the insured’s death
Survivor Lump-Sum Payment
Spouse or partner $65,674 to $505,000
(based on the deceased’s gross annual income)
Disabled dependent $28,731
Non-dependent child or parent $14,625
Funeral expenses (receipts required) $8,951
Grief counselling $3,743 per person (maximum)
Additional Information
Manitoba Public Insurance
Employment and Social Development Canada
7. Canada Pension Plan
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) retirement pension is a monthly, taxable benefit that provides partial income replacement upon
retirement. Those who qualify receive the CPP retirement pension for the rest of their lives.
Eligibility
• Be at least 60 years old
• Have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP
Contributions
Every person over the age of 18 who works in Canada and earns more than $3,500 per year must contribute to the Canada Pension
Plan. Employees pay half the required contributions and their employer pays the other half. Those who are
self-employed pay 100% of the contribution. At age 70, workers no longer contribute to the CPP, even if they are still working.
The contribution amount is based on employment income. The contribution rate is indexed on January 1 of each year.
Benefits
The standard age to start collecting CPP benefits is 65; however, workers can take a permanently reduced pension as early as age 60.
Contributions entitle you to the following benefits:
• Retirement pension
• Post-retirement benefit
• Disability benefits
• Survivor benefits
The CPP allows pension splitting for married or common-law couples and credit splitting for divorced or separated couples under
certain conditions.
A contributor who wishes to receive benefits must submit an Application.
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 11Return to the Table of Contents
Overview of CPP Amounts
Basic amounts for 2021
Maximum annual allowable earnings $61,600
Basic exemption $3,500
Contribution rate
Employee and employer 5.45%
Self-employed workers 10.9%
Maximum contribution
Employee and employer $3,166.45
Self-employed workers $6,332.90
Maximum amount for lump-sum payment
Maximum death benefit $2,500
Maximum monthly amounts
Retirement and post-retirement pensions
Retirement pension (at age 65) $1,203.75
Post-retirement benefit $30.09
Disability benefit
Disability benefit $1,413.66
Post-retirement disability benefit $510.85
Children of disabled CPP contributor $257.58
Survivor’s pension
Contributor younger than 65 $650.72
Contributor 65 and older $722.25
Children of deceased CPP contributor $257.58
Additional Information
Canada Pension Plan
Employment and Social Development Canada
8. Old Age Security Act
The Old Age Security Act provides for the payment of four benefits in accordance with the following conditions:
Benefit Eligibility
Old Age Security pension (OAS) • Must be a Canadian citizen aged 65 or over
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Provides additional income to low-income • Receive the OAS pension
seniors living in Canada • Meet requirements related to income
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 12Return to the Table of Contents
(continued)
Benefit Eligibility
Allowance (ALW)
Offered to low-income seniors • Must be the spouse or common-law partner of a person who receives the OAS
pension and GIS, or be eligible to receive them
• Must be aged 60 to 64
• Must be a Canadian citizen or a person authorized to reside in Canada at the
time the Allowance application is approved, or had been approved the last time
he or she travelled outside of Canada
• Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning age 18
Allowance for the Survivor
Additional income for low-income seniors • Must be aged 60 to 64
• Must be a Canadian citizen or a legal resident at the time the application for
the Allowance is approved or have been approved the last time he or she
travelled outside Canada
• Has an annual income below the prescribed limit
• Has a spouse or common-law partner who has died, and has not remarried nor
lived in a common-law union for more than 12 months since
• Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning age 18
Payment Amounts
OAS pension and benefit payments are revised on a quarterly basis (January, April, July and October) to reflect the cost of living
increase as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Payments are made as follows:
Old Age Security pension payments from January to March 2021
Type of Benefit Maximum Income level Income level cut-off for
amount1 cut-off2 top-ups
Old Age Security pension (OAS)3, 4 $615.37 $129,075 n/a
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Single, widowed or divorced $919.12 $18,648 $8,864
Spouse/common-law partner of someone who:
Does not receive the OAS pension $919.12 $44,688 $17,728
Receives the OAS pension $553.28 $24,624 $7,936
Receives the Allowance $553.28 $44,688 $7,936
Allowance 4
$1,168.65 $34,512 $7,936
Allowance for the Survivor $1,393.08 $25,152 $8,864
1
The maximum amount includes top-ups to the GIS and Allowances.
2
The income level cut-offs do not include the OAS pension, the first $5,000 of employment or self-employment income and 50% of employment
or self-employment income between $5,000 and $15,000.
3
The OAS pension repayment range in 2021 is from $79,845 to $129,075.
4
Individuals can defer receiving the OAS pension beyond age 65 in exchange for a higher pension. The monthly OAS pension is increased by 0.6%
for every month it is delayed up to a maximum of 36% at age 70.
Additional Information
Old Age Security pension
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 13Return to the Table of Contents
Health and Seniors Care
9. Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living administers the provincial public health plan that provides coverage for essential
medical services to residents of Manitoba.
Eligibility
To be eligible for coverage, applicants must:
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or hold a valid permit to work or study and be legally admitted to Canada
• Establish a permanent residence in Manitoba
• Reside (physically) in Manitoba six months in a calendar year
Registration is mandatory for all Manitoba residents. It is the responsibility of each individual to register themselves and their
dependents who reside in the province. Individuals covered by the plan receive a health card with a permanent identification
number. Manitoba residents must present this card to receive provincial health insurance coverage.
Overview of Care and Services Covered
Care or Services Terms and Conditions
Medical Services Care or treatment in a clinic or hospital. Covered services include:
• Physicians’ services
• Surgery and anaesthesia
• X-ray and laboratory services in approved facilities when ordered by a physician
• Insured services by physicians who practise outside the plan
Hospital Services • Accommodation and meals at the standard level
• Necessary nursing services
• Laboratory, x-ray and diagnostic procedures
• Medications administered in a hospital
• Use of the operating room, care room and anaesthetic facilities
• Routine surgical supplies
• Radiation therapy
• Occupational, speech and physiotherapy
• Dietetic counselling
Optometry Services • One routine complete eye exam provided in a 2-year benefit period for patients under the age of 19
years and 65 years of age and over
• Certain tests provided by optometrists including the Full Threshold Visual Fields Test, the Tonometry
Test and the Dilated Fundus Examination
• Eye exams when warranted by medical conditions as determined by the eye care provider,
regardless of the patient’s age
Chiropractic Services • 7 visits per Manitoba resident per calendar year, which cover adjustment of the spinal column, pelvis
and extremities
Dental Surgeons Certain dental procedures when hospitalization is required
Air Ambulance Air ambulance transfers may be covered in some situations
Transfers
Breast Prosthesis A benefit every 2 years for the following amounts:
Program • Up to $400 per prosthesis to a total of one prosthesis for a single mastectomy; or
• Up to $400 per prosthesis to a total of two prostheses for a bilateral mastectomy; and
• $50 towards the purchase of a bra, or
A benefit every 4 years for the following amounts:
• Up to $800 per prosthesis to a total of one prosthesis for a single mastectomy; or
• Up to $800 per prosthesis to a total of two prostheses for a bilateral mastectomy; and
• $100 towards the purchase of a bra
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 14Return to the Table of Contents
(continued)
Care or Services Terms and Conditions
Seniors Eyeglass Manitoba residents aged 65 years and over:
Program • 80% of a fixed amount for glasses, regardless of the actual amount paid. The fixed amount is based
on the type of lens prescribed
• $50 deductible
• One pair of eyeglasses may be claimed every three years
Children’s Hearing Manitoba residents under the age of 18 who require a hearing aid, as prescribed by an otolaryngologist
Aid Program or audiologist:
• 80% of a fixed amount for an analog device, up to a maximum of $500 per ear
• 80% of a fixed amount for a digital or analog programmable device, up to $1,800
• 80% of a fixed amount for additional services, such as dispensing fees, ear molds, and ear impressions
One device is allowed per ear every 4 years
$75 deductible on all claims
Home Hemodialysis • Eligibility is determined by the Manitoba Renal Program (MRP)
Utility • Reimbursement applies to the cost of utilities – electricity and water to operate the dialysis
Reimbursement equipment
Program • No deductible
Orthopaedic Shoes Manitoba residents under the age of 18 are eligible for:
Program • 50% of the cost of stock shoes up to a maximum of $27.80
• 50% of the cost of shoes for children with different sized feet to a maximum of $41.80
• 50% of the cost of custom-made shoes to a maximum of $139.00
• An allowance of $5.55 per pair of shoes is also provided for modifications
Two claims per year
No deductible
Prosthetic Eye and Reimbursement for artificial eyes or cosmetic shells and related services including building up, refitting,
Contact Lens resurfacing and repolishing
No deductible
For infants, the program covers one lens per eye per child. The maximum allowable reimbursement is
$190 for a single lens and $380 for bilateral lenses
Prosthetic and Prosthetic or orthotic services prescribed by a medical practitioner:
Orthotic Program • 100% coverage for limb prosthetic devices and services
• 100% coverage for limb and spinal orthotic devices and services
One device may be claimed every 2 years
No deductible
Telecommunications Residents who are profoundly deaf or speech impaired:
Program • 80% of the cost of equipment which allows telephone conversations to be conducted by keyboard
and display terminal instead of voice, up to a maximum of $428
Reimbursement of a telecommunications device every 5 years
$75 deductible
Personal Care Home Services
If a Manitoba assessment panel determines that an individual requires care in a personal care home and they meet the residency
requirements, this person may receive insured benefits. To be eligible, individuals must have lived in Manitoba. Newcomers are
eligible after living in the province for 24 consecutive months.
Some of these benefits include:
• Standard accommodation • Medical and surgical supplies
• Basic nursing care • Prescribed drugs and related preparations approved by
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living
• Assistance with and/or supervision of the activities
of daily living • Meals including special diets
• Physiotherapy and occupational therapy • Laundry and linen services
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 15Return to the Table of Contents
A Closer Look at Group Insurance
Keeping employees engaged and healthy
The public health plan provides basic coverage for many health care services. Private insurance through a group plan
offers more generous coverage that allows employers to rely on healthy workers. Not to mention that benefits are an
excellent way to stand out as an employer of choice. When it comes to choosing an employer, many workers consider
the possibility of, for example, protecting their children while they are in school, getting coverage for vaccinations and
tests that would not otherwise be covered, or paying a fraction of the fees of other health care professionals with
comprehensive health insurance coverage.
Manitoba Pharmacare Program
Pharmacare is a drug benefit program for eligible Manitobans, regardless of disease or age, whose income is seriously affected
by high prescription drug costs.
Eligibility
Those eligible for the Manitoba Pharmacare program meet the following criteria:
• They are eligible for Manitoba Health and Seniors Care coverage
• Their prescriptions are not covered by other provincial or federal programs
Benefits
Pharmacare coverage is based on both total family income and the amount paid for eligible prescription drugs.
Each year eligible individuals are required to pay a portion of the cost of their eligible prescription drugs. This amount constitutes
their annual deductible. Pharmacare sets the deductible based on adjusted family income.
A Closer Look at Group Insurance
Anything can happen when you’re travelling! Do you have private
insurance?
The cost of healthcare services is generally higher when outside your province of residence. It is essential to take out
private travel insurance that will cover you in case of illness or accident while travelling. Most group insurance contracts
include travel insurance. In addition to covering the costs associated with obtaining emergency health care that is not
covered by public insurance, this type of insurance is often accompanied by trip cancellation insurance or travel
assistance services.
Additional Information
Manitoba Health Services Insurance Plan
Manitoba Ministry of Families
10. Employment and Income Assistance
The Employment and Income Assistance Program (EIA) provides financial help to Manitobans who have no other way to support
themselves or their families. This includes benefits from the Rent Assist Program that helps with housing costs. The program also
provides support to help people able to work find a job.
The assistance and the amounts paid are determined according to EIA categories:
• General assistance: For single persons or couples without dependents/children and without a disability.
• Single parents: For individuals who are unmarried, separated, divorced, widowed or who have a spouse in prison, and who have
custody of a dependent child or children, or are in their seventh, eighth or ninth month of pregnancy.
• Persons with a disability: For people who have a mental or physical disability that is likely to last more than 90 days and prevents
them from earning enough income to meet their basic needs.
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 16Return to the Table of Contents
Benefits
Benefits are intended to help individuals meet the costs of what is considered essential to their health and well-being, such as
food, clothing, personal needs, household items and shelter.
Rent Assist also provides EIA recipients with benefits to help with rent and utility costs (water, electricity or heat) if these are not
already included in the rent.
Overview of Benefit Amounts by Recipient Status - July 1, 2020
Household Composition General Assistance Persons with a Disability
Couple with no children $1,055 $1,369
Couple with children
1 child $1,393 to $1,465 $1,665 to $1,737
2 children $1,492 to $1,636 $1,765 to $1,909
3 children $1,846 to $2,062 $2,119 to $2,335
Single person with no children
$771 $1,068
– General category
Unmarried, separated, divorced,
widowed person or whose spouse
$923 n/a
is in prison
– Single parent category
Single Parent
1 child $1,312 to $1,363 $1,445 to $1,517
2 children $1,423 to $1,536 $1,555 to $1,699
3 children $1,522 to $1,699 $1,655 to $1,871
Note: Benefit amounts are determined according to household composition and the age of children, if any. The benefits listed in the table include
EIA and Rent Assist.
Other financial assistance may be available depending on the individual’s circumstances, such as for public services or special care.
Employment Assistance
Most EIA recipients must look for work. They receive assistance in developing and implementing an action plan that matches their
needs and abilities. They also have access to employment and training programs, self-employment, benefits and services. EIA may
provide extra money to help with:
• Child care expenses
• Work expenses like work clothing or work boots
• Telephone costs, if needed for a job
• Miscellaneous expenses when participating in an approved training program (up to $25 per month)
• The Rewarding Work Allowance of $100 per month, for each employed adult who works full-time and $50 per month for part-time
workers
Earnings Exemption
Income assistance recipients can increase their total monthly income by working. The earnings exemption allows them to keep
the first $200 of their net monthly earnings and 30% of any amount they earn over $200 before EIA benefits are reduced.
Additional Information
Employment and Income Assistance
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 17Return to the Table of Contents
Manitoba Ministry of Families
11. 55 PLUS Program - A Manitoba Income
Supplement
The 55 PLUS Program, a Manitoba Income Supplement, provides quarterly benefits to lower-income residents 55 years of age
and over. The program has two components:
• The Junior Component for people 55 to 64 years of age who are not eligible for benefits under the Old Age Security (OAS) program
• The Senior Component for people 64 years of age or older receiving benefits under the OAS Program.
Eligibility
Those eligible for the 55 PLUS Program:
• Are 55 years of age or older
• Live in Manitoba, have a valid Manitoba Health card number
• Have a total family income below a specific level
Individuals cannot receive 55 PLUS benefits if they receive EIA benefits. However, if they receive only the health care benefits
portion of income assistance, they may be eligible for 55 PLUS.
Individuals receiving benefits under the federal Old Age Security (OAS) Program are not required to apply. Eligibility is determined
automatically based on the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Allowance, or Allowance for the survivor they receive. Applicants not
yet receiving OAS benefits must reapply each year.
Maximum Quarterly Benefit Amounts
55 PLUS Junior Component:
• Single person: $161.80
• Each eligible person in a married or common-law relationship: $173.90
Under the junior component, partial benefits are available to single people with an annual income up to $9,746.40 and couples
with an annual family income up to $16,255.20.
The amounts are paid four times a year, i.e., in April, July, October and January.
Additional Information
55 PLUS Program
SSQ Insurance
2021 Bulletin on Manitoba Social Legislation 18Return to the Table of Contents
12. Tax Impact of Group Insurance
From a fiscal standpoint, some of the group insurance premiums that the employer pays for its employees are considered
work-related taxable benefits. For the employer, these taxable benefits increase the total payroll and as a result, increase the
contributions to various governmental programs. For employees, this increases their income which indirectly creates a tax to pay.
The table below shows the tax impact of the various benefits included in group insurance plans.
Coverage Deductible Expenses1 Employer’s Benefits Taxable for
for Employer Contribution Taxable the Employee
for Employee
Life Yes Yes No
Accidental death and dismemberment,
dismemberment due to illness and critical Yes Yes No
illness
Dependents’ life Yes Yes No
Short term disability Yes No Yes2
Long term disability Yes No Yes2
Health Yes No No
Dental Yes No No
1
Expenses refer to the portion of the premiums paid by the employer for this benefit.
2
If the employer pays any part of the premium, regardless of the amount.
If you have any comments or questions about this Bulletin, please email them to: bulletin@ssq.ca.
The texts presented in this document are the responsibility of the various government bodies that produce them. In the event of
a discrepancy, the original texts in the laws and regulations will take precedence over the information provided in this Bulletin.
SSQ Insurance
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