The new NSTU Long Term Disability Insurance Plan
As of August 1, 2014, all disability pensions for Nova Scotia teachers’ are provided from the newly introduced Nova Scotia Teachers’ Union (NSTU) Long Term Disability (LTD) Insurance plan. Prior to this, all disability pensions were provided directly from the Teachers’ Pension Plan (TPP).
Important facts!
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Prior to August 1, 2014, if you had 35 years of pensionable services, less your accumulated sick leave, you are exempted from the NSTU LTD Insurance plan. You should contact Johnson Inc. at 1-800-453-9543 (toll free) if you have any questions regarding your sick leave credit.
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For teachers who were on unpaid sick leave as of June 30, 2014, they are able to remain on a disability pension payable from the TPP, for two years ending August 1, 2016.
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For teachers whose sick leave began after June 30, 2014, they should apply for disability support through the new NSTU LTD Insurance plan.
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It is important to note that Plan members will still contribute to the Plan, and accrue service, while on LTD.
How does this impact my TPP contributions and pensionable service?
If you begin receiving a disability benefit from the NSTU LTD Insurance plan, you will be able to make contributions to the TPP and continue to accrue pensionable service. Your Employer will match your contributions.
Can I purchase service for any time that I am not covered?
Should you be receiving disability benefit from the NSTU LTD Insurance plan, you may also purchase pensionable service for time when you were absent from duty on unpaid sick leave.
Contingent upon being approved to receive a disability benefit, you will be able to purchase this service without having to return to work for 50 days.
If you wish to purchase service, but have not been approved to receive disability benefit, you will still be required to return to work for 50 days prior to being able to purchase that service.
When was the new NSTU LTD Insurance plan introduced?
The NSTU LTD Insurance plan was introduced in the spring of 2014 by the sponsor of the Teachers’ Pension Plan, the Teachers’ Pension Board. The Teachers’ Pension Board includes representation from the NSTU and the Province of Nova Scotia.
For more information, contact the Administrator of the NSTU LTD Insurance Plan, Johnsons Inc., at 902-453-9502 or 1-877-490-9502.