WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Wellness Spending Account (WSA) helps pay for eligible expenses that support your physical, mental, social and financial well-being but are not generally covered by your health or dental plan. If you choose an eligible Core or Basic option, you may allocate available flex credits to your WSA during enrolment, up to the plan maximum. Keep in mind: WSA reimbursements are taxable and will be included in your taxable income. Unused credits do not carry forward.
Eligible Expenses
You can use your WSA for a broad range of eligible wellness expenses, including:
| Eligible Expense Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fitness and recreation | Gym memberships, fitness classes, personal training, sports registration, equipment, athletic footwear and apparel. |
| Family care | Childcare, elder care, home-care assistance and caregiver support. |
| Learning and personal development | Tuition, books, courses, tutoring, professional memberships and life coaching. |
| Insurance premiums | Certain eligible individual insurance premiums, as outlined by Manulife. |
| Transportation | Eligible public and alternative transportation, parking and transportation for professional development. |
| Unreimbursed health expenses | Eligible drug, medical, vision and dental expenses not reimbursed by another benefit plan. |
These are examples only. Before making a purchase, check the Manulife plan information to confirm whether an expense is eligible.
Whose Expenses Are Eligible?
You can submit claims for eligible expenses incurred by you, your spouse and your eligible dependants, as defined by the plan.
Claims and Account Details
| Annual maximum | You can be reimbursed for 100% of eligible expenses, up to the annual WSA maximum of $500. |
|---|---|
| Account funding | WSA credits are deposited annually at the beginning of the plan year. Employees who become eligible during the year will receive prorated credits. |
| Submitting claims | Follow Manulife’s claim-submission process and use the WSA plan number shown in your plan information. |
| Claim deadline | You have 90 days after the end of the benefits plan year to submit claims for eligible expenses incurred during that plan year. |
| Receipts | Keep itemized receipts and any supporting documentation that Manulife may need to review your claim. |
Unused WSA Credits
WSA credits do not carry forward. To use your WSA credits, eligible expenses must be incurred by the end of the benefits plan year. You have 90 days after year-end to submit claims for those expenses.
If you are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, check your union contract, as eligibility and benefits might be different for each program.
