How to Use Your Extended Health Benefits for Allied Health in Canada

Extended health benefits are one of Canada's most underused financial tools. Most employer-sponsored benefit plans include annual coverage for allied health services — but surveys consistently show that Canadians claim far less than they are entitled to each year.

What Is Typically Covered?

Most group benefit plans include some level of coverage for Registered Massage Therapy (RMT), physiotherapy, chiropractic, psychology, and registered psychotherapy. The annual limit per category varies widely — from $300 to $2,000 or more. Check your benefits portal or booklet for exact amounts.

The January Reset

Most benefit plans reset on January 1st or on your policy anniversary date. If you have unused benefits remaining near the end of your benefit year, this is an excellent time to book sessions you have been putting off. Sessions in December that are claimed before the reset are often lost entirely.

What You Need to Claim

To submit a claim, you typically need: the practitioner's name, registration number, professional designation, the date and cost of service, and a receipt or official invoice. All regulated practitioners on HealIn provide official receipts designed for insurance submission.

Do You Need a Doctor's Note?

Usually no — most insurers do not require a physician referral to claim allied health services. However, some plans do require a referral for physiotherapy or psychology. Check your specific plan before booking if you are unsure.

Coordinating Two Plans

If you and your partner both have benefits, you may be able to coordinate claims between two plans to cover close to 100% of your costs. Your primary plan pays first; any remaining balance can be submitted to the secondary plan. This coordination of benefits can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for ongoing care.