We previously shared that GreenShield would be moving to mandatory receipt uploads for all claims submitted through GreenShield+ starting March 4, 2026. GreenShield has now advised that this transition has been deferred, and there is no new implementation date at this time.
What this means for you:
You can keep submitting claims the same way through GreenShield+, just remember to hold on to your receipts in case they’re needed later.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the Benefits Team at Benefits@united-church.ca
Pension Awareness Day on February 19 is a reminder of how important it is to understand and make the most of your pension. Even if retirement feels far away, learning about your United Church pension plan and the benefits it provides can help you and your loved ones build a stronger financial future. The earlier you start planning and saving, the more prepared and comfortable you’ll be when life after work finally arrives!
The Power of Financial Literacy: What you need to know
Financial literacy is more than understanding money — it’s about feeling confident in the decisions that shape your future. Learning the basics now makes it much easier to build long-term financial security.
Know your retirement goals
Think about the lifestyle you want — compare what you spend today with what you might spend once you stop working.
Expect some costs to change — fewer work expenses, different priorities like travel or hobbies, and possible health-related costs.
Use simple planning tools — the Government of Canada’s Retirement Income Calculator can help you estimate future income and expenses.
Attend our Pension Information Seminar - learn about how the plan works, what it costs, what it provides, and how to apply for your pension when you're ready. The next session is February 19 starting at 1:00 p.m. EST.
Understand what shapes your retirement
Start saving now
The Bottom Line
Building financial literacy today sets you up for a more secure and fulfilling retirement tomorrow. Understanding your lifestyle, planning ahead, and using available tools can make a meaningful difference in your future comfort and confidence!
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | Starting at 1:00 p.m. ET / 10:00 a.m. PT
Click here for the start times in each of Canada’s Time Zones
The United Church of Canada provides a Defined Benefit Pension Plan for all employees who work more than 14 hours a week. Join us to learn about how the plan works, what it costs, what it provides, and how to apply for your pension when you're ready. In this program we'll describe:
Register here for the Zoom session!
If you have any questions, please contact Shenagh Rosa, Pension and Governance Advisor, at srosa@united-church.ca
February often brings attention to heart health, but it’s also the perfect moment to reflect on the powerful connection between your emotional wellbeing and your physical health. These two parts of your life don’t operate in isolation; they influence each other every day.
When stress, worry, or emotional strain builds up, your body often feels it too. Fatigue, tension, changes in sleep, and shifts in energy can all be signs that your emotional wellbeing needs attention. And the reverse is just as true - when your body feels strong and supported, your mind is better equipped to stay balanced, focused, and resilient.
Healthy Heart & Mind Tips
Your emotional and physical wellbeing are deeply connected. February is a great time to reflect on that relationship and explore what helps you feel more grounded, energized, and well.
Just a reminder, if you want to access your EFAP services such as online appointment booking and live chat, you will need to create a personal account. Follow these steps to set up your account.
Website: one.telushealth.com
Username: unitedchurch
Password: eap
Starting March 4, 2026, GreenShield will be transitioning to mandatory receipt uploads for all claims submitted through GreenShield+. This means rather than keeping receipts for future audits, members will be required to upload it during the claim submission, and GS+ will store it securely*. If you are not already doing so, we recommend adopting this practice now.
*All member data is processed/stored within Canada. They use Toronto-based servers that have been audited to meet the highest standards for data security. This includes multiple on-site and off-site encrypted backups, intrusion prevention and detection systems, and various safeguards.
The Customer Contact Centre is currently experiencing elevated wait times due to a seasonal increase in call volume. To help reduce the impact of these high‑volume periods, several initiatives are underway:
Additional mitigation strategies—including overtime, cross‑functional support, and student staffing—continue to be used to help manage peak‑period demand. These combined efforts are intended to stabilize service levels as call volumes return to normal.
An apology is extended for any inconvenience these delays may cause for members.
Members are encouraged to use their GS+ accounts for self‑service options. You can also find answers to any FAQs through the GS+ Help Centre.
January is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and think about what you’d like to accomplish going forward. You can use this fresh start to evaluate your mental health and set emotional goals that truly works for you and your life.
Why it matters:
Your mental well-being influences every part of your life—from relationships and work to physical health. Setting intentional goals can help you feel more balanced and resilient throughout the year.
Ask yourself:
Even modest, consistent efforts can spark positive change!
Set Your Emotional Goal
Website: one.telushealth.com
Username: unitedchurch
Password: eap
Investing in your mental well-being is a gift that lasts all year. Let this be the season to pause, reflect, and grow with intention because new beginnings deserve renewed minds!
*Just a reminder, if you want to access services such as online appointment booking and live chat, you will need to create a personal account. Follow these steps to set up your account.
Connex is your newsletter that provides information about your pension, benefits, and payroll. If you were previously receiving an email about Connex and didn’t see it in your inbox, check your spam folder! If it’s still not there and you would like to receive Connex, please sign up for the latest news and updates by filling out the form below.
Previous editions can be found in the Connex Archives
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Good news! Pension plan members will receive a pension increase effective January 1, 2026.
Pensioners and Deferred Members
Current pensioners and deferred members will receive a 2 percent* increase to their pension amount effective January 1, 2026.
* The Income Tax Act and regulations and the Plan, limit pension increases to the cumulative growth in Consumer Price Index since the pension commenced. For this reason, recently retired pensioners and deferred members who terminated active membership recently may see a lesser increase.
Active Members
For active members, the accrual rate will stay at 1.85 percent in 2026 from the base rate of 1.4 percent. In 2027 the accrual rate is scheduled to return to 1.4 percent.
What Does “Accrual Rate” Mean?
The accrual rate is the rate at which you earn your pension. In 2026, you earn your pension at the rate of x percent of your pensionable earnings.
How Does This Work?
You earn a piece of pension every year that you work and contribute to the plan—like building blocks.
For example, let’s assume that a member’s pensionable earnings stayed constant at $60,000 every year, (for easy figuring). From 2019, that member would earn
|
Year |
Accrual Rate | Formula |
Pension Credit Earned |
|
2019 |
1.4% | 1.4% of $60,000 | $ 840 |
|
2020 |
1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 | $ 1,110 |
|
2021 |
1.625% | 1.625% of $60,000 |
$ 975 |
| 2022 | 1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 |
$ 1,110 |
| 2023 | 1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 |
$ 1,110 |
| 2024 | 1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 |
$ 1,110 |
| 2025 | 1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 |
$ 1,110 |
| 2026 | 1.85% | 1.85% of $60,000 |
$ 1,110 |
| 2027 | 1.4% | 1.4% of $60,000 |
$ 840 |
At the end of your career, the annual pension amounts earned each year will add up to the total annual pension you will receive every year for the rest of your life. So, the higher amount earned in 2026 will continue to benefit you for the rest of your retired life.
What about Future Increases?
There is no automatic indexing in our plan. The Pension Board and Pension Plan Advisory Committee annually assess the resources available and determine whether there are surplus funds that can be used to increase benefits.
The holiday season is a time of celebration, but it can also bring added stress and pressure. Between year-end deadlines, family commitments, and financial strain, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In December, we’re focusing on two powerful tools to help you navigate the season: gratitude and stress management.
Why Gratitude Matters
Practicing gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you”—it’s about shifting your perspective. Research shows that gratitude can:
Quick Tip: Start a gratitude list. Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for—big or small. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference!
Managing Holiday Stress
The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be hectic. Here are a few strategies to keep your stress from sleigh-ing you this season!
The season is about connection and kindness, toward others and yourself, so let’s make space for gratitude and well-being as we close out the year.
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Just a reminder, if you want to access services such as online appointment booking and live chat, you will need to create a personal account. Follow these steps to set up your account.
Website: one.telushealth.com
Username: unitedchurch
Password: eap