Employer Monthly - April Issue
In this issue you’ll find an update on our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, an important reminder about the annual reconciliation process, a recap on the OMERS Annual Meeting, and more.
An update on our response to COVID-19
As we continue to navigate a new way of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, Employer Services hours of operation remain adjusted and we are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. To accommodate physical distancing measures, in-person workshops continue to be replaced with webinars until further notice (please see below for a list of upcoming webinars).
The “Advanced Election Option” in the Form 143 - Request for an OMERS Plan benefit has been updated to allow for electronic signatures.
A dedicated COVID-19 page is available on our website with resources and frequently asked questions. Please continue to visit this page as we will make updates and provide additional information as it becomes available.
For information on how to report leaves related to COVID-19, a new e-learning module is now available to help guide you through the process.
In addition to the FAQs, we have launched OMERS Community which provides resources for members such as health and wellness tips, virtual coffee chats and more!
Annual reconciliation process
As a reminder, the annual reconciliation deadline is June 30, 2020. This deadline is based on a requirement in the Pension Benefits Act to provide member statements by this date, and OMERS does not have the ability to change it. We understand that these are unprecedented times but do encourage you to work towards completion by the deadline as best you can.
To support the successful completion of this process, new webinars have been added which cover everything from preparing to reconciling your Form 119s.
Upcoming webinars (10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. EDT):
Steps 1 & 2: Import and Submit e-Form 119 Data – Tuesday, May 5
Step 3: Resolve e-Form 119 Exceptions – Wednesday, May 6
Step 4: Reconcile Your e-Form 119 – Thursday, May 7
If you require assistance with the completion of Form 119s or if you are concerned you will not meet the deadline we are here to help, please contact Employer Services for support.
In addition to our webinars about the 119 process, we continue cover helpful topics related to OMERS administration and procedures.
Upcoming webinars (10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. EDT):
Disability Administration Part 1: Disability Elimination Period (e-Form 164) – Tuesday, May 19
Disability Administration Part 2: Requesting a Disability Benefit (e-Form 143) – Thursday, May 21
Member Events (e-Form 143) – Wednesday, June 3
See more webinars and register today!
OMERS Annual Meeting
On April 8, OMERS hosted its 2020 Annual Meeting, held entirely through webcast. The meeting was an opportunity for members, employers and stakeholders to hear directly from several members of OMERS senior executive team, including Blake Hutcheson, President and incoming CEO. If you did not have a chance to join the meeting live, a full recording is available now.
Employer feedback
Please take a few minutes and provide us with your feedback about how we can serve you better. Responses are anonymous and sharing your thoughts on a regular basis will allow us to make improvements in how we work with you.
We appreciate your participation and the valuable information you provide.
We’re here to help. Contact Employer Services:
Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Phone: +1 416.350.6750
Toll-free: +1 833.884.0389
Email: employerservices@omers.com
Thank you for helping us administer the Plan and deliver a wonderful experience to our members.