EI Offers $695/Week Through Sickness Benefits: If you’re unable to work due to illness, injury, or medical conditions, Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits in Canada can provide financial support while you recover. As of 2024, eligible individuals can receive up to $695 per week for a maximum of 26 weeks. Navigating EI benefits can be overwhelming, but this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to the application process—ensuring you get the financial help you deserve when you need it most.
EI Offers $695/Week Through Sickness Benefits
If you need time off work due to illness, EI Sickness Benefits provide financial support of up to $695 per week for 26 weeks. The application process is simple, and applying early ensures you receive payments without unnecessary delays.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | $695 per week (55% of your average insurable weekly earnings) |
| Duration of Benefits | Up to 26 weeks |
| Eligibility Requirements | Must have worked 600 insurable hours in the past 52 weeks & have a medical certificate |
| Waiting Period | 1 week (unpaid) |
| Taxable? | Yes, federal and provincial taxes apply |
| How to Apply | Online via Service Canada or in person |
What Are EI Sickness Benefits?
EI Sickness Benefits are temporary financial aid provided by the Canadian government for workers who are unable to work due to medical reasons, such as:
- Illness
- Injury
- Quarantine (e.g., infectious diseases)
- Mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
These benefits ensure you have financial stability while recovering and prevent workers from being forced back into employment before they’re medically fit to return.
Who is Eligible for EI Sickness Benefits?
To qualify for EI Sickness Benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- Paid EI Premiums – You must have contributed to EI through deductions from your paychecks.
- Worked at Least 600 Insurable Hours – This applies within the last 52 weeks or since your last EI claim.
- Lost Over 40% of Your Weekly Income – Your illness or condition must prevent you from earning your usual wages.
- Have a Valid Medical Certificate – A doctor or medical professional must confirm your medical condition and that you’re unable to work.
- Not Receiving Other EI Benefits – You cannot claim both regular EI benefits and sickness benefits simultaneously.
Example: If you worked 40 hours per week for the past six months, you would have 960 insurable hours, making you eligible for EI Sickness Benefits.
How Much Money Will You Receive?
The maximum EI sickness benefit in 2024 is $695 per week. However, the amount you receive depends on your average weekly insurable earnings:
- EI covers 55% of your average weekly income.
- If your average weekly earnings are $1,000, you would receive $550 per week.
- If you earned more, your benefits are capped at $695 per week.
How to Calculate Your EI Sickness Benefits
- Find your highest-earning weeks in the last 52 weeks.
- Add up the earnings from these weeks.
- Divide by the number of weeks to find your average weekly earnings.
- Multiply by 55% to get your weekly EI benefit.
- Compare this to the maximum amount ($695) to see if you’re capped.
How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying for EI Sickness Benefits is straightforward, but to avoid delays, apply as soon as you stop working—even if you haven’t received your Record of Employment (ROE) yet.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, make sure you have:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Banking details (for direct deposit)
- Employer information (names, addresses, dates of employment)
- Record of Employment (ROE) (your employer submits this electronically)
- Medical certificate from your doctor
Step 2: Apply Online or In Person
- Online: Visit Service Canada and complete the application.
- In-Person: Visit a Service Canada office if you need assistance.
Step 3: Submit Your Medical Certificate
Your doctor must complete a medical certificate form that confirms your condition and expected recovery time. You can submit this:
- Online (upload scanned copies)
- In person at a Service Canada office
- By mail (check Service Canada for mailing details)
Step 4: Wait for Processing
- EI claims usually take 28 days to process.
- If approved, you’ll start receiving payments after the one-week waiting period.
How Long Do EI Sickness Benefits Last?
You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks in a 12-month period. However, if you recover earlier or return to work, your benefits will stop.
Example:
- If you take 12 weeks off due to surgery, you’ll still have 14 weeks of remaining EI benefits in case you need them later in the year.
Do You Have to Pay Taxes on EI Sickness Benefits?
Yes. EI benefits are taxable, and both federal and provincial taxes will be deducted from your payments.
Tip: If EI payments are your only source of income, you may qualify for a tax refund at the end of the year.
Can You Work While Receiving EI Sickness Benefits?
Yes, but with limitations. Under the Working While on Claim program:
- You can earn up to 50% of your EI benefits without a full reduction.
- Any earnings above 50% will reduce your EI payments dollar-for-dollar.
Example: If your EI benefit is $600/week, you can earn up to $300/week without affecting your payment. If you earn $400, your EI benefit will be reduced by $100.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get EI Sickness Benefits if I already receive EI Regular Benefits?
No, you cannot receive both at the same time. However, you may be able to switch between benefits.
2. What happens if I recover before using all 26 weeks?
Your benefits stop when you return to work. Any unused weeks cannot be carried over.
3. Can I receive EI Sickness Benefits while on maternity or parental leave?
No, but you may be eligible for other programs like the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB).
4. What if my EI claim is denied?
If denied, you can request a reconsideration within 30 days by submitting a written appeal to Service Canada.
5. What if I need more than 26 weeks of support?
You may qualify for Long-Term Disability (LTD) through your employer or Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits.
