A Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) exists for all TAs and RAs (in lieu). As a result of our success with collective bargaining in late 2022, we have been able to expand the maximum entitlement for members. Collective Bargaining works! Effective January 30, 2023 (and backdated to September 1, 2022), the maximum entitlement is no $350 per twenty four month period. (This period is currently calculated retroactively from September 1st of the academic year in which you use up your entitlement. For example, if you make a $350 claim in November, 2021, the next time you will be eligible to make a claim will be September 1st, 2023, provided you are still a member/meet the eligibility criteria. The entitlement period is subject to change pending funding.) Previously, the maximum entitlement was $250 per twenty four month period.
The Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) enables members to claim a wide range of medical, dental and pharmaceutical expenses not covered (or inadequately covered) by OHIP, UHIP and student extended health plans administered by the GSA and MSU. Vision care products and services such as glasses, contacts and eye exams will remain eligible expenses.
Click here for a full list of HCSA eligible expenses determined by the Revenue Canada Agency. You can also visit the CRA’s list of authorized practitioners according to province here.)
**Please note that prescription eye glasses are on the eligibility list. They are listed by as: “Vision devices – including eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct eyesight – prescription required.” If you are only getting frames, you need proof from the optometrist that they inserted prescription lenses into the frames. (They should be able to indicate this on your receipt.)**
This benefit is open to ALL Unit 1 (Teaching Assistants or RA in lieu) members in good standing. If you hold a TA or RA in lieu contract for the 2022-2023 academic year (September 1st, 2022 to August 31st, 2023), you are be eligible to make a HCSA claim this academic year (provided you have not “maxed out” your entitlement in the past academic year).
Your eligibility for this benefit expires on August 31st of the current academic year, and will not be renewed in September unless you hold a contract for (or have a reasonable expectation to hold a contract for) the next academic year. (Please note there are some additional limitations to this eligibility period in very rare circumstances. If you have any questions, please contact administrator@cupe3906.org.)
To file a claim, fill out the form available at the Union office or on our website HERE (This form is a PDF that can be filled out on your computer.)
A Cheque will normally be mailed to the address provided on the claim form in about 4-6 weeks.
Please note that you must normally submit your HSA claim within 60 days of purchase of your health-related product or service. Some exceptions may be possible. For more information, contact administrator@cupe3906.org.