The following chart specifies the periods for the statutory notice requirements.

 

 

Length of Employment

Notice Requirement

 

Less than 3 months

None

 

3 months but less than 1 year

1 week

 

1 year but less than 3 years

2 weeks

 

3 years but less than 4 years

3 weeks

 

4 years but less than 5 years

4 weeks

 

5 years but less than 6 years

5 weeks

 

6 years but less than 7 years

6 weeks

 

7 years but less than 8 years

7 weeks

 

8 years or more

8 weeks

 

Insurers should be notified of employees that will be continuing coverage during the notice period however; approval from the insurer is not required.

 

Beyond the notice period 

 

There are certain situations where an employment or termination agreement provides benefits to an employee beyond the notice period.  An insurer can usually agree to provide a continuation of benefits.  However, typically it will be under modified provisions or reduced coverage.

 

Each insurer has different rules and guidelines surrounding this issue.  As well, each severance agreement will be unique based on the employee’s age, occupation and benefit provisions.

 

Insurers must be notified of employees that need an extension of coverage beyond the notice period, however.  An approval from the insurer is required.