Frequently asked questions

Popular questions

Here are the answers to our most-asked questions. If you don’t find what you need here, contact us.

Joining RTOERO

What does RTOERO offer besides group insurance plans?

RTOERO is pleased to provide many programs and services for our members.

  • District social network: RTOERO districts are very active communities and social gatherings, events and activities – formal and informal – are routinely organized for members.
  • Project – Service to Others is one way RTOERO gives back to the community through projects of interest to our districts.
  • Renaissance is our quarterly magazine published for our members.
  • We run a scholarship program that provides funds to relatives of members.
  • Travel discounts: we partner with Merit Travel, which offers discount travel packages to members.
  • Venngo MemberPerks® is included as part of our Extended Health Care Plan and includes savings on health and wellness, entertainment, restaurants and more.
How do I join RTOERO?

It’s easy! Fill out our member form and submit online or mail it in. We’ll process your application as soon as possible, send your welcome package, and you can begin enjoying the benefits of membership.

Can I apply for membership online?

Yes, you can! Visit the membership page.

Who is eligible to join RTOERO?

Anyone who works in or retired from the education community in Canada is eligible. This includes staff of public and Catholic schools and school boards, early years, private schools, post-secondary education, trustees, bus drivers.

I am working in education. Am I eligible to join RTOERO now, or do I have to wait until I retire?

Join now! Your membership is free until you retire or join our Entente Group Insurance Program.

What are districts, and how do I know which one I can join?

RTOERO membership is divided into districts based on geography. This allows members to participate in social, travel and leisure opportunities, become involved in political advocacy and assume leadership roles on district executives in their local area and with local members. Find which district you live in.

Can I join more than one district?

Each member is only able to join one district, but there are often opportunities, organized by us or the districts, that allow you to socialize with members from other districts!

Can I belong to a different district than the one I taught in or live in?

RTOERO has many members who have moved away from the area where they worked to a different area. Members may choose which district they wish to join but can only be a member of one district.

Who do I contact with my questions about joining RTOERO?

A staff member would be happy to answer your questions. You can either email [email protected] or call 416-962-9463 or 1-800-361-9888.

Membership fees and pension plan

How much does it cost to join RTOERO?

Membership is free until you retire or join our health plans. If you are already retired, membership is free for the calendar year in which you join. After retirement, the membership cost is $76.50 per year. Visit our membership section for more information about the value of membership.

Are the membership fees monthly or annual?

The membership fee is annual.

When are the membership fees deducted from my pension?

If you receive a pension from the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, you can opt to have your membership fee deducted directly from your pension. The fee is deducted from your January pension payment.

Can I pay my membership fees by credit card or direct withdrawal instead of from my pension?

Yes! Please contact our accounting department for more details – [email protected] or 416-962-9463 or 1-800-361-9888.

How can I increase the income tax that is deducted from my pension or CPP/OAS?

Please speak directly with your pension provider or Service Canada. RTOERO does not have the ability to change tax deductions on retirement income sources.

How many days per year may I continue teaching in retirement without it affecting my pension?

Please speak directly with your pension provider for current information.

Group insurance plans

What are the group insurance plans options offered by RTOERO?

We offer a range of group insurance plans designed to suit our members’ needs. Please see the Insurance section for more information.

Who is eligible to join the group insurance plans?

Most members of RTOERO are eligible.

Is my spouse/partner eligible for the RTOERO group insurance plans?

Most spouses/partners are eligible. See our Eligibility page for full details.

Can I coordinate benefits with other group insurance plans?

Yes! Please see our Claims page for more information or contact our insurance Service Administrator at 416-920-7248 or 1-877-406-9007, or by email at [email protected] for help with this.

I don’t have benefits through work, or they’re ending, and I’ll still be working. Can RTOERO help?

Some of our members are contract or casual employees in education and don’t have insurance coverage through work. Or, their employment may be ending before their retirement date because of layoffs. If you’re dealing with either of these situations, we can help. Learn more here.

What are the rates for the RTOERO group insurance plans?

We provide competitive rates on the best group insurance plans available to retired teachers and other education workers. Visit our insurance plans section for plan information and rates.

My loved one has passed away. Can I continue with the RTOERO group insurance plans?

Yes you can. Please contact our membership team to receive a Continuation of Benefits form. They can be reached by email at [email protected], or by phone at 1-800-361-9888 or 416-962-9463.

Who can I contact with my questions about joining RTOERO group insurance plans?

A staff member would be happy to answer your questions. You can either email [email protected] or call 416-962-9463 or 1-800-361-9888.

I’m retiring this year, but my spouse is still working, and I will be covered under her insurance. Can I apply for RTOERO group benefits when they retire or the insurance runs out?

Yes. You can stay on your spouse’s group insurance plan if they have one. About 1-2 months before they retire, you can apply for insurance through RTOERO. Make sure the insurance application is in the RTOERO member’s name.

When should I apply for RTOERO Insurance?

It’s best to apply before your retirement or termination date of your group insurance; 1-2 months before the deadline is good. You can apply up to 60 days after the termination of previous coverage and be automatically approved for your coverage.

General

What are retirement planning workshops and where can I attend one near me?

Our retirement planning workshops provide more information about retirement. We cover financial, pension and practical aspects of retiring. Check the schedule to see when the next workshop is taking place near you.

I am coordinating a retirement planning event for staff at our organization/school – do you offer speakers?

Yes! You can book us to speak at your event for free. Learn more about what we offer.

What is Annual Meeting/Forum and what is the schedule of upcoming events?

We have two meetings annually of our corporate members. Each district elects two corporate members to attend these events, and districts can choose to send up to two observers as well. In late May, we hold our Annual Meeting and Spring Forum. Fall Forum happens in late October. Exact meeting dates are posted in our calendar.

Whom can I contact to change my address, phone number, district or other information?

You can send the new information directly to the Membership Department at [email protected].

I'd like to tell RTOERO members about a job posting or opportunity. How can I do this?

Post your opportunity on our classifieds page.

Who do I talk to about travel insurance coverage?

You can learn more about travel coverage on our travel insurance page. You can also speak to our insurance Service Administrator – 416-920-7248 or 1-877-406-9007, or by email at [email protected].

To whom should i talk to get information kits and recruitment posters?

Please contact our office at 416-962-9463 or 1-800-361-9888 and a staff member will be happy to help you.

Publications and website

How do I advertise on the RTOERO website or in RTOERO publications?

Please see our advertising page for more information. Send your questions to [email protected].

I'm having trouble reading the website information. Can I increase the size of the text?

Yes, you’ll find the option to increase the font size in the top left corner of the site.

Who do I contact to provide feedback about your website and publications?

We are always pleased to receive feedback from our members and the general public. Please email [email protected].