Leave of absence without pay
Does a leave of absence without pay count as pensionable service?
Yes, a leave of absence without pay counts as pensionable service if it is authorized and contributions are fully paid for that period of leave.
Do I continue to accrue pension benefits during my leave?
Yes, as long as you make contributions for the leave period once you are back at work.
How do I make my contributions to the Plan?
Once you're back to work, you can choose to pay:
- by payroll deduction over a period roughly equal to twice the period of your absence, or
- in a lump sum.
The Pension Centre will let you know how much to pay and how you can make the payments.
How much do I have to contribute?
That depends on the length and type of the leave.
If I have strike, lockout, suspension or unauthorized absences, is this time pensionable?
No.
Is there a maximum period of leave I can count as pensionable service?
Yes. Under Income Tax Act rules:
- up to five years of cumulative leave without pay can be counted as pensionable service (not including leave for illness or disability)
- up to an additional three years of maternity and/or adoption leave or parental care leave