The Group Insurance Board approved changes to simplify the Income Continuation Insurance Program for employees and streamline program administration for employers at the same time.
The changes, effective in 2024:
- increase the maximum earnings eligible for standard coverage from $64,000 to $120,000. This is a good thing, as employees with salaries above $64,000 will automatically have coverage for their full earnings, up to $120,000, and employers will now contribute a portion of the premiums for the expanded coverage.
- consolidate the separate standard and supplemental coverage levels into a single, more relevant coverage level that also makes the program much easier for you to understand and use; and
- eliminate the need for employers to complete an annual administrative process for supplemental eligibility and enrollments.
ICI Coverage Extended for Older Employees
As of May 1, 2023, the state and local ICI programs expanded coverage and benefits to employees aged 70 and older:
- Current enrollees no longer have their coverage terminated when they turn age 70. Coverage will continue as long as the enrollee is employed with a participating employer and continues to pay required premiums.
- The maximum duration of benefits for employees disabled after their 60th birthday has been extended. The new maximum duration of benefits schedule is as follows:
| Age at Disablement | Maximum Duration of Benefits from Date of Disablement |
| On or before 60th birthday | Benefits payable to age 65 |
| After 60th birthday | 5 years |
Consider Enrolling in ICI
The ICI program is available to both state employees and local government employees (if your employer participates). It is an income replacement plan that replaces a portion of your income if you are unable to work because of sickness or injury (both short and long-term).
Local government employees: The Group Insurance Board has extended the ICI Program premium holiday for 2024, based on the strong financial position of the local ICI plan. This means that employers and employees will not pay premiums for ICI coverage. For more information, review our brochure for local government employees (ET-2129).
State employees: Premiums will decrease by 10% in 2024, coming on the heels of a 20% decline in premium rates earlier this year. The current premium rates can be accessed via ETF’s ICI web page or directly on this page.
- If you are in good health, you may apply for ICI coverage at any time by completing an “Evidence of Insurability” application. If your application is approved, your coverage would be effective the first of the month following the date of approval.