Most Canadians don’t realize that if they have access to two or more insurance plans — through a spouse, employer, or family — they may be eligible to combine coverage and claim up to 100% of their healthcare costs.
This is called Coordination of Benefits (COB) — and if done right, it can eliminate out-of-pocket costs entirely.
Let’s break down how to make it work for you.
🔄 What Is Coordination of Benefits (COB)?
COB allows you to claim from more than one plan, in a specific order, to increase the total amount reimbursed.
You have…
You can claim from…
Your own plan only
Just your insurer
Your plan + spouse’s plan
Yours first, then spouse’s
Child with two parents
Parent with earliest birthday in year first
💡 If your plan covers 80% and your spouse’s plan covers 80%, you can claim the other 20% from theirs — up to 100% total.
📋 How to Coordinate Benefits Step-by-Step
Submit to your own plan first (called the primary insurer)
Get an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) back (proof of what was covered)
Submit the EOB + receipt to the second plan (secondary insurer)
Receive reimbursement from the second plan for the remaining eligible balance