EI Sickness Benefits Pay Up to $695/Week for 26 Weeks: If you’re unable to work due to an injury, illness, or quarantine, Canada’s Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits can provide financial support. As of 2025, eligible individuals can receive up to 55% of their average insurable weekly earnings, with a maximum of $695 per week, for up to 26 weeks. This guide will explain who qualifies, how to apply, and how to maximize your benefits.
EI Sickness Benefits Pay Up to $695/Week for 26 Weeks
If you’re injured or sick and unable to work, EI sickness benefits provide financial relief while you recover. With up to $695 per week for 26 weeks, this program helps Canadians manage temporary medical conditions without financial hardship.
To maximize your claim:
- Apply as soon as you stop working
- Submit all required documents on time
- Report bi-weekly to continue receiving payments
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, up to $695 per week. |
| Duration | Maximum of 26 weeks. |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Unable to work due to illness or injury.- Earnings reduced by more than 40%.- At least 600 insurable employment hours in the past 52 weeks. |
| Application Process | – Gather required documents.- Apply online at Canada.ca.- Submit medical certificate and Record of Employment (ROE). |
| Waiting Period | 1 week (unpaid). |
| Taxation | Benefits are taxable. |
| Recent Update | EI sickness benefits extended from 15 weeks to 26 weeks. |
| Official Website | Government of Canada – EI Sickness Benefits |
What Are EI Sickness Benefits?
EI sickness benefits provide temporary income replacement for those who are unable to work due to medical reasons but would otherwise be available for work.
This program ensures that workers have a financial safety net while recovering from an illness or injury.
Example:
Emma, a graphic designer, was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and had to take a 3-month leave. She applied for EI sickness benefits and received $695 per week for 12 weeks, allowing her to focus on recovery without financial stress.
Who Qualifies for EI Sickness Benefits?
To be eligible, you must meet the following conditions:
- Medical Inability to Work
- You must be unable to work due to a valid medical condition.
- A doctor or medical practitioner must confirm your condition.
- Reduction in Earnings
- Your weekly income must be reduced by at least 40%.
- Work History Requirements
- You must have at least 600 insurable employment hours in the last 52 weeks.
- Medical Certificate Requirement
- A signed medical certificate from a healthcare provider is required.
Important:
Self-employed workers can also qualify if they opted into the EI program at least 12 months before applying.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits Pay Up to $695/Week for 26 Weeks
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, have the following documents ready:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Banking information for direct deposit
- Employer details (past 52 weeks)
- Record of Employment (ROE) from your employer
- Medical certificate signed by a doctor
Step 2: Apply Online
- Visit Canada.ca and apply online.
- You must apply within 4 weeks of stopping work.
Step 3: Submit Medical Certificate and ROE
- The medical certificate confirms your illness/injury.
- Your employer submits the ROE electronically to Service Canada.
Step 4: Receive Benefit Statement and Access Code
- You’ll receive an EI benefit statement in the mail.
- The 4-digit access code allows you to check your claim status.
Step 5: Submit Bi-Weekly Reports
- Every two weeks, you must report that you’re still unable to work.
- If you don’t submit reports, your benefits may stop.
How Much Will You Receive?
The EI sickness benefit rate is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings, with a maximum of $695 per week.
Example Calculation:
- If you earned $1,200 per week before injury:
- 55% of $1,200 = $660 per week (benefit amount).
- If you earned $1,500 per week:
- 55% of $1,500 = $825, but the max payout is $695.
Your benefits last for up to 26 weeks, depending on medical needs.
Important EI Sickness Benefit Rules
- Waiting Period:
- The first week is unpaid (like a deductible).
- Other Income Considerations:
- Private insurance payments or disability pensions may reduce EI benefits.
- Taxes on EI Benefits:
- EI payments are taxable (federal and provincial taxes apply).
- Can You Work While Receiving EI?
- If you work while on EI sickness benefits, the earnings will be deducted dollar-for-dollar.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I don’t have 600 hours of insurable work?
A: No. However, if you opted into self-employed EI benefits 12 months before your claim, you may qualify.
Q2: Can I extend EI sickness benefits beyond 26 weeks?
A: No. However, you may apply for Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits if your condition prevents you from working long-term.
Q3: How long does it take to receive my first payment?
A: EI claims usually take 28 days to process, but delays can occur.
Q4: What happens if I recover earlier than expected?
A: You must stop claiming EI as soon as you’re fit to return to work.
Recent Changes & Updates (2025)
- Maximum Benefit Duration Increased:
- From 15 weeks to 26 weeks (effective December 18, 2022).
- More Online Services:
- Faster EI applications and tracking via the My Service Canada Account.
