The Government of Saskatchewan has announced that ministries, Crown corporations, and organizations are putting contingency plans in place ahead of a possible postal service disruption. The labour action could begin as early as November 15, 2024, and the government aims to minimize the impact on clients and suppliers, especially regarding payments.
Switch to Direct Deposit Recommended
To avoid interruptions, the government is encouraging clients and suppliers to opt for direct deposit, which will continue unaffected even if postal services are disrupted.
Social Services Payments
The Ministry of Social Services is making arrangements for alternative payment distribution methods for clients who currently receive their benefits by mail. Most clients already use direct deposit and will not experience delays. The ministry is urging others to consider signing up for direct deposit to ensure timely receipt of their benefits.
Drug Plan and Extended Benefits
The Ministry of Health will continue accepting program applications, documents, and receipts by email at DPEB@health.gov.sk.ca. In Regina, these can also be dropped off at the TC Douglas Building on Albert Street. Clients are encouraged to use these options to avoid delays.
Health Cards and Vital Statistics
Mail disruptions could delay the processing of health card applications and vital statistics orders, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates. eHealth Saskatchewan recommends using its online services at eHealthsask.ca to minimize delays.
Crop Insurance Payments
The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) will offer alternate options for delivering documents and receiving information, including fax and email. Producers are encouraged to register for direct deposit, with the form available on SCIC’s website.
Payments to Government Suppliers
The Ministry of Finance will provide a pickup option for supplier cheques in Regina for those not using direct deposit. Suppliers should contact the ministry at 306-787-7450 to arrange this service.
Filing and Paying Taxes
The Ministry of Finance reminds businesses that filing and paying taxes remains mandatory even during a postal disruption. Deadlines for non-electronic filings and payments are the 20th of the month following the reporting period, while electronic submissions are due by the last day of the month. Online services will remain unaffected.
Tax Refunds
Businesses using direct deposit for tax refunds will not be affected. Those expecting refunds via mail can switch to direct deposit, delay receipt, or request delivery by courier at their own cost by contacting the ministry at 1-800-667-6102.
Crown Utility Bills and Communications
Crown utilities, including SGI, SaskTel, SaskPower, and SaskEnergy, are urging customers to sign up for electronic accounts. This will ensure uninterrupted access to billing and important notifications. Customers may face longer wait times for service calls during a disruption, so online options are recommended for payments and inquiries.
For the latest updates and more detailed information, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/postal-strike after November 3, 2024.
This proactive approach aims to keep Saskatchewan residents informed and reduce any inconvenience caused by a potential postal strike.