ADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: Quit Work for a Year Without Quitting (The Deferred Salary Plan)

Michelle spoke with John Cuddie, a retired HR professional with deep experience in school boards, about deferred salary leave plans — a structured way to save for a year off work. John shared how he used the program twice, what he did during his leaves, and why intentional pauses can be personally and professionally valuable. About John Spent 30+ years in HR with three school boardsLater worked as an employment advisor helping new immigrants and youthApproves deferred salary leave plans as part of his HR backgroundTook two deferred salary leaves himself What Is a Deferred Salary Leave? A leave of absence funded by saving part of your salary in advanceCommon structure: “four over five” Work 4 years at 80% pay20% goes into a trust accountTake the 5th year off using those savingsOften includes pension/benefit considerations and a contractual return-to-work agreement What John Did on His Leaves First Leave Home projects: painting, purging, tidyingFamily travel to India and DubaiTrips with kids to Broadway/New York and a ski holiday Second Leave More household and personal tasksSignificant time supporting a close friend going through cancer treatmentSome travel as well Main Takeaways A year off can be invigoratingIt can also be humbling — work continues without youTime away helps people see they are not their jobIt creates balance and makes room for other forms of contribution What Holds People Back Financial concerns about living on reduced salaryUncertainty about what the future may hold over a 4–5 year planning periodFamily changes, life changes, and possible cancellation of plans Planning Considerations Budget carefullyThink through staffing and who will cover your roleConsider family and partner dynamicsBalance practical tasks with rest, fun, travel, and connectionUse the time to invest in what matters most Practical Advice/Next Steps for you Start by talking to your employer or bossAsk your payroll department about the detailsReview CRA guidance on tax implicationsBe ready to discuss staffing and return-to-work planning Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association   Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangapFollow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangapFollow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ