Benefit Plan Changes Coming January 1, 2026

September 17, 2025

Expanded access to mental health support and MyRetiree insurance options coming January 2026.

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Starting January 1, 2026, ASEBP is introducing changes to enhance your coverage and better support you and your dependants. These updates reflect feedback from covered members and aim to improve both accessibility and flexibility in your benefits.

The key changes include:

  • Better access to mental health support for all ASEBP covered members
  • Additional Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance options for MyRetiree Plan members

Together, these changes are designed to help you and your family maintain, improve, and regain your physical and mental health.

Better access to mental health support – all ASEBP covered members

Beginning January 1, 2026, Registered Social Workers (RSWs) will be added as eligible providers under ASEBP’s psychology and counselling coverage, with up to $120 per treatment covered.

Covered member can currently access support from:

  • Registered psychologists
  • Provisional psychologists (under the supervision of a registered psychologist)
  • Master of Social Work degree holders
  • Certified counsellors

Adding RSWs expands your options, making it easier to find qualified mental health support—especially in rural areas where psychologists may be less available.

What is a Registered Social Worker?

In Alberta, RSWs are regulated by the Alberta College of Social Workers. They hold at least a university degree in social work and are trained to provide therapy and counselling. RSWs are often more widely available and may offer a more cost-effective alternative to psychologists.

Please note: The daily treatment limit and combined yearly maximum for psychology and counselling coverage remain the same. Visit the Medical Services and Supplies page for more information on psychology and counselling coverage limitations and maximums.

More flexibility for Life and AD&D insurance through the MyRetiree Plan

ASEBP heard from MyRetiree Plan members that more flexibility and affordability are needed when it comes to Life and AD&D insurance.

Starting January 1, 2026, a new flat $25,000 Life and AD&D insurance option will be available for members under 65.

Why this change?

Currently, coverage is only available if you:

  • Are under 65, and
  • Had Life and AD&D coverage before retiring or leaving ASEBP.

The coverage amount is based on 2x your annual salary at the time you left employment.

The new $25,000 flat-rate option:

  • Provides access for members who were previously ineligible
  • Offers a more affordable alternative for those who don’t need higher coverage amounts
  • Allows you to choose the level of coverage that best fits your needs and budget

The new $25,000 option will be available starting January 1, 2026.

These plan updates are part of ASEBP’s commitment to continuously improving your benefits—guided by your feedback and focused on supporting your overall health and wellness.

More information about these changes will be shared in the coming months.