Association Plan

An "Association Plan" in the context of Life Insurance, Living Benefits, and Health Insurance in Canada refers to a group insurance plan that is offered to members of a professional association, trade group, or similar collective organization. These plans are designed to provide insurance coverage (life, health, disability, etc.) to individuals who are part of a specific association, leveraging the collective bargaining power of the group to secure more favorable terms, rates, and benefits than members might be able to obtain on an individual basis.

Key features of Association Plans include:

1. Membership Benefits: Association Plans are a value-added benefit for members of professional or trade associations, offering access to insurance products specifically tailored to the needs and risks associated with their professions or industries.
2. Group Rates: By pooling the risk among a large group of members, insurers can offer lower premium rates compared to individual policies. This group purchasing power makes Association Plans an attractive option for members seeking cost-effective insurance solutions.
3. Customized Coverage: These plans are often customized to meet the unique needs of the association's membership, taking into account common professional risks, income levels, and lifestyle factors to offer relevant life, health, and disability coverage options.
4. Underwriting: Association Plans may feature simplified underwriting processes, with less stringent requirements than individual policies. In some cases, evidence of insurability may not be required, or there may be guaranteed issue provisions for certain levels of coverage. In other cases, full medical underwriting will be required.
5. Portability: While Association Plans are tied to membership in the specific organization, some plans offer portability features that allow members to maintain their coverage even if they leave the association, though conditions and premiums may change.
6. Administrative Ease: For the associations themselves, offering an insurance plan can enhance membership value and loyalty, while the administrative and management aspects of the plan are typically handled by the insurance provider or a third-party administrator.
7. Eligibility and Restrictions: Eligibility for Association Plans is generally restricted to members of the association, and sometimes their families. There may be restrictions on coverage based on age, health status, or other factors, depending on the specific plan.

Association Plans represent a strategic way for members of professional and trade associations in Canada to access comprehensive and cost-effective insurance coverage. These plans not only provide financial protection and peace of mind for members and their families but also strengthen the value proposition of association membership.