Did you know? If you’re ill or injured and are unable to work, you may qualify for short- or long-term disability benefits through your IBEW 353 disability benefits.

When you are unable to work it’s important to know that you’ll still have some money coming in. You may qualify for short-term disability benefits for up to 26 weeks and long-term disability benefits after that.

Disability benefits provide eligible members of IBEW Local 353 with partial income replacement while you are recovering from an injury or illness and are unable to work – help when you need it the most. If approved, short-term disability (STD) benefits are equal to 75% of your weekly earnings, to a maximum of $750 per week (less applicable taxes), payable for up to 26 weeks. STD benefits are paid on a weekly basis.

When applying for IBEW 353 disability benefits, you’re expected to:

  • Take responsibility for the application process,
  • Complete and submit your application forms within 90 days of becoming disabled,
  • Obtain and pay for the physician’s statement,*
  • Remain under the care of an appropriate medical practitioner and receive care appropriate for your condition,
  • Participate in any approved treatment plans or rehabilitation program, and
  • Notify Canada Life and the union when you return to work.

*Costs related to completion of the physician’s statement are covered by the benefit plan, up to $300 annually – submit to the plan reimbursement).

Reminder: If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, you will not qualify for short- and long-term disability benefits through the IBEW Local 353 disability plan. Contact your auto insurance broker or insurer today to review your auto insurance coverage and ensure you have adequate coverage in case you become disabled in a motor vehicle accident.

TEIBAS TIP: When applying for IBEW 353 disability benefits, you are the central player. Submit your forms as soon as possible but no later than 90 days from the date you become disabled. Make sure you inform the union that you’re disabled and unavailable to work so that your dispatch record can be updated. Call 416-510-3530.

For more information on your disability benefits, watch a short video on your disability benefits on teibas.com or on our YouTube channel, handle @myteibas. Alternatively you can review your IBEW Local 353 Benefit Plan booklet or visit myteibas.com.

Questions? We’re here to help! You can email us at members@teibas.com or call us at 416-637-6789, (toll-free 1-800-267-0602).