Ontario-Accident-Benefit-Changes

What you need to know

Accident Benefits Change in Ontario

Starting July 1, 2026, Ontario is changing how Accident Benefits work. Auto insurance will become more flexible, but this also means drivers will have more choices about their coverage.

Some benefits that were previously included automatically will now be optional.

If you are a current customer:
Your policy will continue to renew with your current coverage and limits, which include caregiver benefit and housekeeping & home maintenance. These will renew with coverage for catastrophic impairment only.
As of July 1, you also have the option to purchase additional coverage for an impairment which include fractures and soft issue injuries. No action is required unless you wish to add this additional coverage to your policy.

Please note that who is covered under your policy for the newly optional Accident Benefits will change on July 1, 2026, even if your policy renews before that date.

Scoop Insurance recommends maintaining the Standard Accident Benefits coverage included in your renewal. The potential cost difference is minimal, while the financial protection it provides can be significant in the event of an auto accident.

If you are a new customer:
You will now get to choose exactly which optional benefits you want to add to your policy.

What’s staying the same?

All auto insurance policies will continue to include basic medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits.
If you want more than the basic coverage, you’ll have the option to add extra protections.

What’s become optional?

Income Replacement

Helps replace part of your income if you can’t work after an accident.

Non-earner Benefit

Financial support for students or unemployed individuals who are injured.

Caregiver Benefit

Covers caregiving costs if you can’t care for someone at home due to injury.

Dependant Care

Helps pay for additional care costs for a child, spouse, or aging parent.

Housekeeping and Home Maintenance

Helps pay for household help if you’re unable to manage chores.

Lost Educational Expenses

Helps pay for school program costs if you’re unable to attend.

Damage to Personal Items

Covers caregiving costs if you can’t care for someone at home due to injury.

Death and Funeral Benefits

Provides financial support to family members in the event of a covered death.

Visitor Expenses

Covers reasonable costs for family or friends visiting you during recovery.

Indexation Benefits

Adjusts certain payments and limits each year to keep up with the cost of living.

Increased Medical, Rehab, & Attendant Care

Covers extra medical and care costs beyond standard limits.

Who is covered?

Under the new rules, optional Accident Benefits will only apply to people listed on your policy, including:

• You (the named insured)
• Your spouse and dependents
• Anyone specifically listed as a driver on your policy

Important note: Pedestrians, cyclists, and some passengers who may have been covered in the past may no longer qualify for your optional Accident Benefits.

What you need to do

3 Simple Steps to Take Today

Review your current coverage

Look at your auto policy to see what benefits you currently have.

Consider your needs

Review each of these coverages and think about your needs.

Check your workplace benefits

You might already have coverage through your employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

General questions about SABS optionality changes

1. I already have a policy. Do I need to do anything?

Your current accident benefits coverage will stay the same unless you make changes. That said, we recommend reviewing your policy at renewal to make sure it still fits your needs.

2. Can I change my optional benefits later?

Yes, you can update your benefits at any time. Just remember—only the coverage you have in place at the time of an accident will apply.

If you remove your existing optional benefits and later re‑add them, they will follow the post‑2026 benefit limits, bundles, and pricing, which may differ from your current grandfathered coverage.

3. Will my passengers still be covered if I opt out of certain benefits?

Basic medical, rehab, and attendant care continue to cover all passengers. Optional benefits only apply to you, your spouse, your dependants, and drivers listed on your policy.

4. What happens to claims that are already in progress?

Nothing changes. Any existing claims will continue under the coverage you had when the accident happened.

5. How do I know which coverage is right for me?

Start by reviewing your current policy and checking any coverage you have through work or private health plans. If you’re unsure, our team is here to help you understand your options and avoid coverage gaps.

6. What is a catastrophic injury?

Severe, life-altering injuries like major brain injuries, serious spinal cord damage, or limb amputations. These qualify for the highest level of benefits and long-term care support.

7. What is an “impairment”?

An impairment is any physical or psychological injury that affects your ability to function normally—whether temporary or long-term (both Non CAT and CAT injuries). This can range from broken bones and chronic pain to serious, life-altering injuries.

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