
Spousal Benefits: Supporting Your Partner in Times of Need
Q: What happens if the spouse wants to go back to school after a member's death?
A: The Spousal Educational Benefit provides up to $15,000 to help the deceased's spouse pursue professional training.
When Emily’s husband, Alex, tragically died in a sudden accident, she was left to cope with not only the deep grief of losing her partner but also the overwhelming responsibility of supporting their family. With their children’s future to consider, Emily knew she had to find a way to build financial stability on her own.
Fortunately, because Alex had Active Plan coverage at the time of the accident, his accident insurance included a Spousal Educational Benefit, offering up to $15,000 to help with educational costs if the surviving spouse chose to pursue further training or professional certification. It was a glimmer of hope in one of the darkest moments of Emily’s life.
Having always been interested in finance, Emily enrolled in a financial planning certification program—a step toward creating a secure future for her family. Within 36 months of Alex’s passing, she used the benefit to cover her tuition fees. This opportunity not only gave her new skills and career prospects but also restored a sense of purpose and control during a difficult time.
Thanks to the financial support from the plan, Emily was able to rebuild her life, gain the independence she needed, and ensure a future of stability for herself and her children—honouring the vision Alex had always held for their family.