5 Tips for Completing the OCF-10 – Election of Income Replacement, Non-Earner or Caregiver Benefit
In the course of applying for Ontario’s statutory accident benefits, you likely will submit an OCF-10, otherwise known as the Election of Income Replacement, Non-Earner or Caregiver Benefit. This form is used to select the most appropriate benefit based on your employment status and financial needs.
An accurately completed OCF-10 may improve your chances of receiving a fair benefits package. Below are five tips to better help you complete this portion of the claims process.
Tip 1 – Carefully select your benefit
Though you may qualify for multiple benefits, the OCF-10 requires you to select only one type of benefit from among these choices:
- Income Replacement Benefit – Available to those who were employed or self-employed at the time of the accident and who worked at least 26 out of the 52 weeks leading up to the incident. This benefit entitles you to 70 percent of your gross income for a maximum of $400 per week. Coverage is available for 104 weeks. You may receive a weekly benefit of at least $185 if your disability continues beyond that point.
- Non-earner Benefit – Available to those who were not employed at the time of the motor vehicle accident and whose injuries prevent the completion of daily activities. Benefits are not available for the first 26 weeks of disability. After that, you may receive a weekly payment of $185. Payments may increase to $320 a week for those whose disability continues past the 104th week.
- Caregiver Benefit – Available to an accident victim who, at the time of the accident, acted as the primary caretaker for a dependant or adult in need. Available benefits are intended to compensate the cost of hiring someone to assume caregiver responsibilities when injuries prevent you from doing so. Benefits include $250 per week for the first dependant and $50 per week for each additional person under your care. Benefits generally are available only for 104 weeks.
Make your choice carefully – you may not change your selection of benefits unless your injury is categorized as catastrophic.
Tip 2 – Submit the OCF-10 in a timely manner
You must submit the OCF-10 – and all other application materials – within 30 days of receipt. This deadline is in addition to other notable Accident Benefit deadlines, including the requirement that you inform your insurance provider of the accident within seven days.
Tip 3 – Keep records of your application
Make a copy of your completed form before you submit your application to the insurance company. This document should be kept organized with all other forms and evidence relevant to your claim.
Tip 4 – Return all other required forms
Ensure your completed application includes all other required forms. For instance, you should include an OCF-2 – Employer’s Confirmation Form if you are applying for Income Replacement Benefits.
Tip 5 – CONTACT PRESZLER INJURY LAWYERS
If your car accident caused you to sustain injuries that impact your daily life, by filing a claim for accident benefits, you may be able to recover compensation. If you have questions about completing your OCF-10 form or if your claim for benefits has been denied, call Preszler Injury Lawyers at 1-800-JUSTICE and receive a free initial consultation with our Ontario accident benefits lawyers.
