Losing your job is stressful enough. Understanding exactly how much Employment Insurance you will receive and for how long helps you plan your finances and get back on your feet faster.
Employment Insurance in Canada pays 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings up to a maximum insurable amount. For 2026, the maximum insurable earnings are $65,700 per year, meaning the maximum weekly EI benefit is approximately $695 per week or about $3,014 per month.
Your actual EI benefit is calculated using your best weeks of earnings — typically the 14 to 22 highest-earning weeks in the past 52 weeks depending on the unemployment rate in your region. This best weeks calculation protects workers who had periods of reduced hours or part-time work from having their benefit significantly reduced.
EI benefits are taxable income. Federal and provincial income taxes are withheld from your EI payments similar to payroll deductions. You will receive a T4E slip at tax time showing the total EI received and taxes withheld. In some cases, high-income earners may need to repay a portion of EI received when they file their taxes.
The duration of regular EI benefits depends on two factors — how many insurable hours you worked in the past 52 weeks and the regional unemployment rate where you live. Benefits range from 14 to 45 weeks.
In regions with higher unemployment rates, EI benefits last longer because the government recognizes that finding work takes more time in difficult labour markets. Regions in Atlantic Canada and parts of Quebec with traditionally higher unemployment often qualify for the maximum benefit period.
To qualify for regular EI benefits at all, you need a minimum of 420 to 700 insurable hours worked in the past 52 weeks, depending on your regional unemployment rate. Workers in regions with higher unemployment need fewer hours to qualify.
EI provides more than just regular benefits for job loss. Understanding all available EI benefit types ensures you access every program you are entitled to during times of need.
Regular benefits cover job loss through layoff, shortage of work, or seasonal employment ending. Maternity benefits provide up to 15 weeks at 55% of earnings for the birth mother. Parental benefits provide up to 35 weeks at 55% (standard) or 61 weeks at 33% (extended) for either parent. Sickness benefits provide up to 26 weeks for Canadians unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine. Caregiving benefits provide up to 35 weeks for Canadians caring for a critically ill family member.
Q: Can I collect EI if I was fired in Canada?
A: It depends on the reason for dismissal. If you were laid off due to shortage of work or your position was eliminated, you qualify for regular EI. If you were fired for misconduct — actions you knew or should have known would result in termination — you may be disqualified. Wrongful dismissal does not affect EI eligibility. When in doubt, apply and let Service Canada make the determination.
Q: How long does it take to receive EI payments in Canada?
A: After completing your application, Service Canada typically processes claims within 28 days. You will serve a one-week waiting period before benefits begin. Direct deposit payments are issued every two weeks. Filing your biweekly report on time is essential — late reports delay payment.
Q: Can I travel outside Canada while collecting EI?
A: You can travel outside Canada for short periods while collecting EI, but you must remain available for work and able to accept a suitable job offer. Extended travel outside Canada that makes you unavailable for work can disqualify you from benefits for the period you are away. Always notify Service Canada if you are leaving the country.
Use our free Canadian salary calculator to see exactly what you earn after all deductions including EI premiums.
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