How to Claim Employment Insurance (EI) in Canada if You’re Laid Off

Losing your job can be stressful, but if you’ve been laid off in Canada, you might qualify for financial support through the federal government’s Employment Insurance (EI) program. This guide simplifies everything you need to know about EI, from eligibility to receiving your first payment.

What Is Employment Insurance (EI)?

Employment Insurance provides temporary financial support to workers who lose their jobs due to circumstances beyond their control, such as layoffs or a company closure. In 2024, you can receive up to $668 per week in EI benefits to help cover your expenses while you search for a new job.

Are Temporary Foreign Workers Eligible for EI?

Yes! Temporary foreign workers with valid work permits may qualify for EI benefits if they meet the following criteria:

• You must have worked in insurable employment (jobs where your employer deducts EI premiums).
• If you have an open work permit, you’re eligible as long as the permit remains valid.
• If you have a closed work permit tied to a specific employer, you may still apply, though your claim might face additional scrutiny.
  
  

Am I Eligible for EI?

You are eligible for EI if you meet these conditions:

1. Worked in insurable employment and had EI premiums deducted from your pay.
2. Accumulated enough insurable hours during the past 52 weeks (typically 420–700 hours).
3. Lost your job through no fault of your own (e.g., layoffs).
4. Been without work or pay for at least seven consecutive days.
5. Are ready, willing, and able to work daily.
6. Are actively looking for a job.
   
   

Important Notes:

• If you quit voluntarily or were fired for misconduct, you won’t qualify.
• Severance pay or pay in lieu of notice must be used up before you can start receiving EI.
  
  

How Much Can You Receive?

The EI program replaces 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings up to a maximum of $668 per week. Your benefits are subject to income tax, which will be deducted from your payments.

How Long Can You Receive EI?

The duration of benefits depends on:

• The unemployment rate in your region.
• The number of insurable hours you’ve accumulated.

You could receive benefits for 14 to 45 weeks based on these factors.

Steps to Apply for EI

Step 1: Apply Immediately

• Apply online at Service Canada.
• Have these details ready:
• Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Banking information for direct deposit.
• Employment details.
• Address and contact information.
  
  

Step 2: Submit Your Record of Employment (ROE)
Your employer must provide an ROE, which shows your work history and pay. They may send it directly to Service Canada, or you may need to submit it yourself.

Step 3: Respond to Service Canada Requests
If Service Canada contacts you, provide the required information promptly.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Service Canada aims to process applications within 28 days. You can check the status of your claim through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA).

Step 5: Submit Bi-Weekly Reports
After your claim is approved, you’ll need to submit reports every two weeks to confirm your eligibility. You must report:

• Any income earned.
• Job search efforts.
  
  

When Will Payments Start?

There is a one-week waiting period before benefits begin. Payments will be deposited 2–3 business days after you submit your bi-weekly report.

Part-Time Work While on EI

You can work part-time while receiving EI. For every dollar you earn, your EI benefits will reduce by 50 cents until you reach 90% of your weekly insurable earnings. Earnings beyond this cap will be deducted dollar for dollar.

How to Set Up Your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)

Your MSCA is a secure portal for accessing government benefits. Sign up at My Service Canada Account using:

• A GCKey.
• Sign-In Partner through your bank.
• Provincial digital ID (e.g., BC Services Card).
  
  

Setting Up Direct Deposit

To receive payments directly into your bank account, provide:

• Your account number.
• Transit and institution numbers (found on your cheques or online banking portal).
  
  

Key Takeaways

Employment Insurance is a lifeline if you’re laid off in Canada. Apply as soon as you stop working, stay on top of your bi-weekly reports, and actively search for a new job to continue receiving benefits.

Stay informed and take action quickly to make the most of the support available through EI!