Laid Up? EI Sickness Benefits Deliver Up to $695/Week for Recovery: Life can be unpredictable. One day, you’re at work, and the next, an illness or injury might sideline you. During such challenging times, Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits in Canada provide a vital safety net, offering up to $695 per week so you can focus on recovery without financial stress. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, serious illness, or quarantine, EI sickness benefits are designed to help. But how do you qualify? What’s the application process like? And what other support is available? This guide breaks it all down in simple, clear steps to ensure you get the financial assistance you need.
Laid Up? EI Sickness Benefits Deliver Up to $695/Week for Recovery
EI sickness benefits provide up to $695 per week for 26 weeks if you’re unable to work due to medical reasons. The application process is straightforward but requires a medical certificate and employer details. If you’re ineligible or need long-term support, other financial assistance options exist. Recovering from an illness is stressful, but financial support shouldn’t be. Apply as soon as possible, double-check your documents, and follow the steps to receive the help you need!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | Up to $695 per week |
| Percentage of Earnings Covered | 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings |
| Benefit Duration | Up to 26 weeks (previously 15 weeks) |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Unable to work for medical reasons- Regular weekly earnings reduced by more than 40%– 600+ hours of insurable employment in the last 52 weeks or since the start of your last claim |
| Application Process | Online through the Government of Canada website |
| Medical Documentation | A medical certificate from a doctor or approved medical practitioner is required |
| Waiting Period | 1 week (unpaid) before benefits begin |
| Other Financial Aid Options | CPP Disability, Workers’ Compensation, Private Insurance, and Provincial Sick Leave Programs |
Understanding EI Sickness Benefits
How Much Can You Receive?
The EI sickness benefit replaces 55% of your weekly earnings, up to $695 per week.
Example:
- If you earn $800 per week, you receive $440 per week in EI sickness benefits.
- If you earn $1,500 per week, you receive the maximum of $695 per week (because it’s capped).
How Long Can You Receive Benefits?
You can now claim benefits for up to 26 weeks (previously 15 weeks). This change recognizes that recovery can take longer for some medical conditions.
Eligibility Criteria: Do You Qualify?
To be eligible for EI sickness benefits, you must meet the following requirements:
Medical Condition Prevents Work – You’re unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine.
Lost at Least 40% of Income – Your regular weekly earnings have dropped by 40% or more.
600+ Insurable Work Hours – You’ve worked at least 600 insured hours in the past 52 weeks.
Medical Certificate Required – A doctor or authorized medical professional must confirm your medical condition.
Exception: If you don’t have 600 hours, you may qualify for alternative support like provincial sick leave or disability benefits.
How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits Deliver Up to $695/Week (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying is straightforward, but missing details can delay your claim. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before applying, prepare:
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Banking details for direct deposit
Employer history for the past 52 weeks
Medical certificate from a doctor
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Apply online at the Government of Canada’s EI Sickness Benefits page. It takes about an hour.
Pro Tip: Apply immediately after stopping work. You don’t need your Record of Employment (ROE) to apply.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Your employer might send your ROE electronically. If not, request a copy and submit it manually. You may also be asked for a medical certificate.
Step 4: Receive a Benefit Statement
After applying, you’ll receive a four-digit access code to track your application and submit biweekly reports.
Step 5: Receive Payments
Expect your first payment in about 28 days if everything is in order. Payments are made through direct deposit.
Common Mistakes That Delay Applications
Applying too late (More than 4 weeks after stopping work)
Incorrect or missing information (especially employer details)
Not submitting a medical certificate
Forgetting to submit biweekly reports
Avoid these mistakes to speed up approval!
What Other Financial Support Exists?
If you don’t qualify for EI sickness benefits, or if your illness lasts longer than 26 weeks, you might be eligible for:
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits – For long-term or permanent disabilities
- Workers’ Compensation – If your injury is work-related
- Private Short-Term Disability Insurance – Check if your employer offers a plan
- Provincial Sick Leave Programs – Available in some provinces
Returning to Work After EI Sickness Benefits
Once you’re ready to return to work, you can: Gradually return to work – Start part-time before resuming full hours
Request workplace accommodations – Such as a lighter workload or remote work options
Explore Work-Sharing Benefits – A program that allows employees to work reduced hours while still receiving EI
Important: Inform Service Canada if you return to work earlier or later than expected.
Canada Federal Payment of $300 for 2025: Important Dates and Eligibility Criteria
Advanced Canada Workers Benefit Payments Coming in 2025: Check Payment Schedule & Eligibility
New Canada Pension Plan Update 2025: More Money or Delays? Check Here
FAQs About EI Sickness Benefits
Q1: Can I receive EI sickness benefits if I’m on maternity leave?
No, but you may qualify for EI maternity or parental benefits.
Q2: Can I work while receiving EI sickness benefits?
Yes, but your earnings will reduce your EI payments.
Q3: Are EI sickness benefits taxable?
Yes, both federal and provincial taxes apply.
Q4: What happens if I need more than 26 weeks?
You may qualify for long-term disability benefits through CPP or private insurance.
