April 2020
April 30: Temporary pay increase for frontline workers
The Ontario government recently announced a temporary increase to the hourly wage for front-line workers such as those working in long-term care, retirement homes, community care, home care and some hospitals. Additionally, those working more than
100 hours per month will receive a monthly lump-sum payment for four months. HOOPP defines pensionable earnings as the regular wages or straight-time pay that are paid as part of base earnings. Since the pandemic payments are temporary in nature
and in addition to regular earnings, they are not pensionable. Contributions should not be deducted from members on these payments.
April 16: Continued HOOPP benefits for members on new unpaid emergency leaves
During these challenging times we understand members may experience disruptions in their regular work, but we want to ensure their pensions are protected and can continue to grow. For that reason, HOOPP will provide any member that takes a COVID-19
related unpaid emergency leave, or is within the first 15 weeks of an unpaid health leave, with contributory service at no cost to you or them.
We recognize that many members on leave during this crisis will continue to be paid and will have the option to keep growing their pension. Now, with this benefit in place, those on these unpaid leaves will also be able to continue building their
pension, based on what they normally would have earned in the Plan. This benefit will apply for the period of emergency declared by the government of Ontario.
Please note, the process for reporting leaves remains unchanged. In the upcoming weeks we will provide more information on how we will support you through this initiative. If you have any questions, please contact your Regional Manager or your Employer
Services Specialist.
April 16: Extension for contribution payments for leaves of absence
As part of our continued efforts to support our members, we are extending the timeline for members to make pension contributions following a leave of absence. The current timeline of 6 months from the end of a leave has been extended to 12 months
and applies to all leaves of absence.
You can continue to submit all leave information and payments to HOOPP through the normal processes. We will provide you with additional details and resources in the coming weeks. If you have any questions, please reach out to your Regional Manager
or Employee Services Specialist.
April 3: Extending deadlines for free accrual applications
To provide members with more flexibility in light of the current environment, we have extended the deadline for disability benefits applications to a maximum of six months. As a result, it may take longer for you to see when a member starts receiving
free accrual.
We ask that you please continue to submit leave of absence information on time.