For Your Information
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Did you know that your OMERS defined benefit pension provides you with protection during periods of time that you are unable to work and contribute to the Plan because of a disability? If you are unable to work due to physical illness or injury, or mental illness, you may be eligible for an OMERS disability waiver or disability pension.
Disability waiver
While on disability waiver, you continue to accumulate credited service in the Plan as if you are still working. OMERS covers your contributions and your employer’s contributions. The earnings used to calculate your pension are increased by the lower of the annual increase in the Average Industrial Wage or the Consumer Price Index.
To qualify for a disability waiver, you must be totally disabled as defined by the OMERS Plan and your claim must be approved by OMERS.
Disability pension
If you become totally and permanently disabled as defined by the OMERS Plan, you can begin a disability pension.
Definitions of disability
Totally disabled
You are incapable of doing your own job during the first 24 months of physical or mental disability; and after 24 months, you are incapable of doing any work for which you are qualified or may reasonably become qualified, by education, training or experience. Your disability cannot have resulted from a willful self-inflicted injury, committing (or attempting to commit) an offence under the Criminal Code, or working in an unlawful occupation.
Totally and permanently disabled
You suffer from a physical or mental impairment which prevents you from engaging in any occupation or performing any work for compensation or profit for which you are qualified or may reasonably become qualified, by education, training or experience, and the disability is expected to last the rest of your lifetime. Your disability cannot have resulted from a willful self-inflicted injury, committing (or attempting to commit) an offence under the Criminal Code, or working in an unlawful occupation.
Learn more about disability benefits on omers.com. For an overview of everything the Plan has to offer, read the OMERS Member Handbook.
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Free webinars on pension education
Whether you are new to OMERS, preparing to retire or somewhere in between, it’s never too early or too late to start learning more about your pension. Our Pension Education & Relationship Management team is here to help with webinars that will allow you to ask any questions you may have as you prepare for this important journey. Click the links below to register for an upcoming session. Secure your spot now because space is limited!
The Power of Your Pension Plan – Retirees | March 8 | 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Power of Your Pension Plan – Active Members | March 8 | 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
How OMERS Calculates Your Pension | March 17 | 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Maximize Your Retirement Income | March 17 | 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
OMERS Survivor Benefits | March 22 | 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
The Power of Your Pension Plan – Retirees | March 24 | 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Power of Your Pension Plan – Active Members | March 24 | 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Preparing for Retirement | March 30 | 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
See a full list of dates and topics on our Events page.