1. Purpose

Northern Lights Library System (NLLS) provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, ensuring financial security, health coverage, and work-life balance. This policy outlines eligibility requirements, benefit details, and procedures for accessing benefits information.

2. Benefit Eligibility

1. Full-Time Employees
   • Permanent full-time employees are eligible for all benefits upon completing probation.
2. Part-Time Employees
   • Part-time employees working a minimum of 21 hours per week are eligible for employer-paid health benefits.
3. Casual & Temporary Employees
   • Casual and temporary employees are not eligible for benefits.

3. Health & Wellness Benefits

1. Employer-Paid Health Benefits
   • NLLS covers 100% of health benefit premiums for eligible employees.
   • Employees may add dependents (spouse, children) by contacting the Finance Officer.
2. Short-Term Disability (STD) & Long-Term Disability (LTD) Coverage
   • Participation in STD and LTD coverage is mandatory for all eligible employees.
   • Employees pay 100% of premiums.
   • These programs provide income protection in case of illness or injury.
3. Mental Health Support
   • Employees have access to mental health resources as part of their health benefits plan.

4. Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) Matching

• NLLS offers a Self-Directed RRSP Program, allowing employees to choose their financial institution.
• NLLS provides up to a 5% matching contribution.
• The Executive Committee may review RRSP contribution levels annually based on financial sustainability.

4.1 RRSP Contribution Reporting & Tax Compliance

• Contribution Confirmation: Employees will receive confirmation of RRSP contributions:
  • On their pay stubs, where deductions and employer matching will be listed.
  • Through annual benefits summaries provided by NLLS.
• Tax Reporting: Employer-matched RRSP contributions will be:
  • Reported on T4 slips as required by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
  • Subject to applicable tax laws and contribution limits.
• Employee Responsibilities:
  • Employees are responsible for verifying that deposits are made correctly with their financial institution.
  • Any discrepancies must be reported to the Finance Officer for resolution.

5. Additional Workplace Benefits

In addition to salary and health benefits, NLLS provides:

• 35-hour work week (full-time employees).
• 18 personal (sick) days annually.
• 12 statutory and general holidays.
• Paid time off between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Long-service awards recognizing employee milestones.
• Professional Development and Education Support for eligible employees.
• Flexible work schedules when operational needs allow.
• Remote work options when the position can accommodate it.
• One (1) day of Volunteer Time Off per year for employees to support community initiatives.
• Financial support for employee-led social events.

6. Accessing Benefits Information & Making Changes

• Employees may contact the Finance Officer for:
  • Information on health benefits coverage.
  • Adding or removing beneficiaries (spouse, children).
  • Accessing retirement savings plan details.
  • General inquiries related to benefits and eligibility.
• Employees may opt in, opt out, or modify benefits due to:
  • Annual open enrollment (if applicable).
  • Qualifying life events (marriage, birth, spousal job change).

7. Payroll Deductions & Tax Compliance

• Mandatory payroll deductions apply to all salary and benefits-related payments, including:
  • Income tax
  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
  • Employment Insurance (EI)
• Employees receiving taxable benefits will be issued the appropriate tax forms for reporting purposes.

8. Policy Review & Updates

• The Executive Committee will review the benefits policy annually to ensure it remains competitive and sustainable.
• Adjustments to benefits will be made based on financial feasibility, employee needs, and industry standards.