Key Points for AFBS Members

We want you to have the best possible experience with all matters AFBS, whether it’s making a claim, checking up on your investments or taking advantage of our Fraternal Benefits. Here are some of the most useful assets you’ll need to best take advantage of what AFBS has to offer.

For New Members Only

Buying into Coverage

If you’re a new AFBS Member living in Canada, between the age of 18 and 64, you have a time-limited option to buy into Bronze Level Coverage at a 10% discount. Bronze Level Coverage includes Health, Dental, Vision Care and more. If you don’t buy into Bronze Level Coverage now, you won’t be eligible for benefits until next March 1. Even then, you’ll only have coverage if you’ve worked enough under the ACTRA or WGC agreements to earn your eligibility. The clock is ticking — so call or email the Benefits Help Desk.

Every Member Should Know

1. Important Dates

   • March 1

     • The start and renewal date of the Benefit Year for the AFBS Members’ Insurance Program. The Members’ Insurance Program commences on March 1 and terminates at the end of February each year.
     • Deadline to submit voluntary contributions to your RRSP for the previous tax year. Unless March 1 falls on a weekend, then the deadline is the next business day.

   • March 31

     • Deadline to act on any available options regarding the renewal of your AFBS Members’ Insurance Program.

   • May 31

     • Deadline to submit claims for the previous Benefit Year (March 1–end of February).

2. The Beneficiary Designation Form

   Who gets the proceeds of any AFBS Life insurance and RRSP balance you have when your gone? Often your Will or Estate Plan determines your intentions. However if you do not have a Will or Estate Plan, by completing the Beneficiary Designation Form we can ensure that your wishes are met.

3. Filing Electronic Claims

   Claims for Dental Services and Prescription Drugs can be made electronically. In order to file electronically your Dentist and Pharmacist will need your plan information. Your plan information appears on your Insurance Statement as illustrated below.

   Click here to log in and access your Insurance Statement. Alternatively, feel free to call or email the Benefits Help Desk.

   

4. Travel Emergency Medical Card

   The Travel Emergency Medical benefit has been designed to cover many of the expenses that can occur when a medical emergency occurs while away from home. If you have access to this benefit, your card will appear on your insurance statement as illustrated below. Keep your card with you for quick and handy reference to bring peace of mind when you are away from home.

   Click here to log in and access your Insurance Statement. Alternatively, feel free to call or email the Benefits Help Desk.

   

5. Keep All Your Receipts

   Be sure to keep and make copies of all of your receipts. Some claims can’t be processed electronically, and we require your original receipts for these.

Get Familiar With Your Top 5 Resources

All of this information is available on the AFBS website, but here are your essential go-to resources:

• Members’ Insurance Program section of this website

  The indispensable reference point for all details pertaining to your AFBS Members’ Insurance Program. The same information is also available in your printed Insurance Benefits Guide, however the website will provide the most up-to-date information.

• Your Member Profile

  Once logged in, you can see balances – both present and historical – of your accounts at AFBS. You can also make payments online, update your contact information, and access a list of your upcoming deadlines and important dates.

• Insurance Statement

  This statement outlines the coverage level you’re at, and the benefits that you get as a result. Again, you need to be logged in to see this important information so make sure you register for online access. Your insurance statement is made available online in your Member Profile in late February, and is mailed to you shortly thereafter to coincide with the renewal of your Insurance Program on March 1.

• Your Money Matters

  The quarterly newsletter straight from AFBS CFO Ron Zammit's desk will keep you on top of your investments. It also includes quarterly fund returns and information on how AFBS funds are allocated.

• Fraternal Benefits section of the website

  We’re a Fraternal Benefit Society. What does that mean? Well, among other things, it means that it’s in our mandate to provide our Members with additional benefits. They’re all listed here, and they’re available at no extra cost to eligible Members.

If you’re ever unsure about anything, just contact us. We’re here to help.