Benefit FYI: Spring 2024 Banner with image of cherry blossoms in bloom at UBC Vancouver
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Ready to learn something new? Use your Tuition Waivers

Project management, understanding Artificial Intelligence, or learning a new language? Are you looking to take on a new challenge or delve deeper into a subject you're passionate about? Why not use your tuition waivers? With the new school year just around the corner, now is a great time to take on a new academic challenge or delve deeper into a subject you're passionate about.

To learn more, you can watch our recent Tuition Waiver benefit webinar or check out our recent article, "Best practices for using your tuition waiver benefit".

Watch the webinar

Tuition Waiver Tips

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Helpful reminders to manage your benefits in Workday

Stay on top of your benefits by regularly checking your Workday inbox, updating dependent student status, reviewing beneficiary details, and keeping personal information current. These small actions help ensure continuous coverage for you and your dependents. 

Learn more
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Protecting your benefits from fraud

Benefits fraud drives up costs and reduces coverage for everyone. This month, we’re focusing on how you can help protect your plan by understanding what fraud looks like, reviewing your claims, and using your benefits responsibly. 

Learn more

Employment Insurance update: waiving the one-week waiting period

For some of our benefits, like our unpaid sick, compassionate care, or family caregiving leave benefits, there is a mandatory one-week waiting period before your Employment Insurance claims can begin. Under the Government of Canada's temporary measure, the waiting period will be waived for all new claims for EI benefits that start between March 30, 2025 and October 11, 2025.

In some instances, like for Maternity Leave, it may still be advantageous to serve the one-week waiting period, as you may be eligible for the Supplemental Employment Benefit.

More information
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Have you used your Health Spending Account this year?

If you are eligible for the Health Spending Account (HSA), don't forget to use any remaining credits before year-end. HSA covers expenses like massage therapy, vision care, prescriptions, and much more. Don’t miss out on your eligible benefits!

Learn more
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Travelling soon? Don’t forget to pack your UBC Benefits!

As you prepare for your upcoming travels, remember to pack your out-of-province emergency medical insurance information and anything you need in the event of a health emergency abroad. Take a look at our tips to get the most out of this valuable benefit.

Learn more

When we focus on wellbeing, everyone benefits

Your benefits plan is one way UBC can help support your health and wellbeing, but there are more opportunities to explore — here are some other initiatives to help support your wellbeing at UBC.

Navigating Menopause panel: webinar recording now available

Our panel with Dr. Melanie Atlas and Dr. Lori Brotto on navigating the physical and emotional aspects of menopause was incredibly popular, so we're sharing the webinar recording!

Learn about myths and misconceptions, the potential impacts of menopause in the workplace and creative endeavours, and the UBC benefits available to faculty and staff experiencing menopause.

Watch the webinar

Want more health and wellbeing stories?

Have you signed up for Healthy UBC? In this monthly newsletter, you will get a selection of our best health and wellbeing stories and events from across UBC.

Subscribe to Healthy UBC
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Personalized nutrition support is now available through our EFAP

This program offers personalized advice to help you and your eligible dependents manage nutritional needs and goals. A powerful combination of meal tracking and personal support from a Registered Dietitian will help you gain effective tools and expert support to improve your nutrition practices.

Access our EFAP

Not sure how to sign in to our EFAP? Take a look at the Employee and Family Assistance Program for steps to sign up and log in.

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Updates to our faculty and staff perks
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New $400 e-bike rebate program now open

Faculty and staff at the UBC Point Grey campus are eligible for a $400 rebate toward a new e-bike for the purposes of commuting to and from campus. Take advantage of this limited-time discount - the pilot program ends December 31.
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Chan Centre membership

Unlock a free Basic Membership at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts and enjoy 10% off tickets, early access, free exchanges, and more. Celebrate world-class performances and local talent — from music to big ideas.

Explore your perks

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Explore your benefits

Health, Wellbeing and Benefits
UBC Human Resources
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Vancouver, BC Canada, V6T 1Z3

hr.ubc.ca/benefits

You are receiving this email because you are enrolled in one or more UBC Benefits plans. To update your Primary email address, where you receive communications from UBC Benefits, please review the Change My Contact Information article or submit a support request through the UBC Self-Service Portal.

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Disclaimer: The information contained in Benefits FYI is for information purposes only; it is not a contract. In the event of a discrepancy between the information in Benefits FYI and the applicable contracts/documents, the applicable plan contracts/documents, collective agreements and/or governing legislation will apply. Unless otherwise specified in the newsletter, you must be registered and enrolled in the appropriate benefit plans to receive the coverage and/or services as described. Enrolment in some of the benefit plans is not automatic. For more information on benefits, visit hr.ubc.ca/benefits.