A car accident can make everyday tasks a challenge. If your injuries make it difficult to manage your household chores, Ontario’s accident benefits system may provide financial support for housekeeping and home maintenance services when you are catastrophically impaired.
What are Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Benefits?
Housekeeping and home maintenance benefits are designed to assist individuals who are unable to perform their usual household duties due to injuries sustained in a car accident. These benefits cover the cost of hiring someone to help with tasks like cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, yard work, and minor repairs.
Eligibility for Housekeeping Benefits
To be eligible for housekeeping and home maintenance benefits in Ontario, you must generally meet the following criteria:
- Valid Auto Insurance: You must have an active auto insurance policy in Ontario.
- Accident-Related Injuries: Your injuries must be the direct result of a car accident.
- Impairment: You have sustained a catastrophic impairment that results in a substantial inability to perform the housekeeping and home maintenance services that you normally performed before the accident.
- Medical Proof: You’ll need a medical professional to assess your abilities and provide a written report confirming that your injuries prevent you from doing these tasks.
How Much Can You Claim?
The amount you can claim for housekeeping and home maintenance benefits varies depending on your policy and the extent of your needs. Under the standard policy, you can receive up to $100 per week for these services. However, you can purchase optional coverage for higher benefit amounts.
How to Apply for Housekeeping Benefits
- Inform Your Insurer: Promptly notify your insurance company about your injuries and your intention to claim housekeeping benefits.
- Complete the Application: Your insurer will provide an application form for these benefits. Fill it out carefully and accurately.
- Gather Documentation: Collect supporting documents, including:
- Medical reports detailing your injuries and their impact on your ability to perform household tasks.
- Receipts or invoices for any housekeeping or home maintenance services you’ve already paid for.
- Submit Your Application: Send your completed application and all supporting documents to your insurance company within the specified deadline.
Important Considerations
- Time Limits: Strict deadlines apply for submitting your claim for housekeeping benefits. Don’t delay in contacting your insurer.
- Medical Assessment: Your doctor or healthcare provider will likely need to conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of your impairment and the specific tasks you’re unable to perform.
- Optional Coverage: If you anticipate needing a higher level of support for housekeeping and home maintenance, consider purchasing optional coverage before an accident occurs.