EI Sickness Benefits Bring $695/Week to the Table – Facing a sudden illness or injury can be overwhelming, especially when it disrupts your ability to work and earn a steady income. Thankfully, Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits are here to support Canadians during such challenging times. This government-backed program offers up to $695 per week, providing crucial financial relief while you focus on recovery.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about EI Sickness Benefits, including eligibility, application steps, key statistics, additional benefits you can combine, professional insights, pros and cons, and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re an employee, employer, or someone seeking reliable information, this guide is tailored to keep things clear, professional, and approachable.
EI Sickness Benefits Bring $695/Week to the Table
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | Up to $695/week (55% of average insurable earnings) |
| Benefit Duration | Up to 26 weeks |
| Eligibility Criteria | Minimum 600 insurable hours worked in the last 52 weeks, medically unable to work |
| Medical Certificate Required | Yes, signed by a medical professional |
| Reduction in Earnings Threshold | More than 40% reduction in weekly earnings |
| Waiting Period | 1-week unpaid waiting period |
| Application Method | Online via Service Canada |
| Official Website | EI Sickness Benefits – Canada.ca |
Navigating through illness is hard enough without worrying about financial stability. Thankfully, EI Sickness Benefits offer a lifeline of up to $695 per week for 26 weeks, providing peace of mind as you recover. Whether you’re an employee, employer, or self-employed, knowing the eligibility criteria and application process can make a world of difference. Additional benefits and professional insights can further enhance your financial support.
What Are EI Sickness Benefits?
EI Sickness Benefits are a form of temporary financial assistance offered by the Canadian government. They are specifically designed for individuals who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine. The program ensures that while you’re recovering, you still have money coming in to cover essential expenses like rent, groceries, and medical costs.
Why Is It Important?
Life is unpredictable. Whether it’s a short-term illness like the flu, a longer recovery period after surgery, or unexpected medical conditions, your income shouldn’t disappear just because you’re unable to work. EI Sickness Benefits provide a safety net, ensuring that you can focus on getting better without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria for EI Sickness Benefits?
Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Unable to Work for Medical Reasons:
- Includes illness, injury, quarantine, or other health conditions.
- Reduction in Regular Weekly Earnings:
- Must experience a reduction of more than 40% in earnings.
- 600 Insurable Hours Requirement:
- You need to have accumulated at least 600 insurable hours in the past 52 weeks or since your last claim.
- Medical Certificate:
- A signed certificate from a doctor or authorized medical professional confirming your inability to work.
Pro Tip: Even if you have employer-provided sick leave benefits, you might still qualify for EI sickness benefits after those run out!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits?
Applying for EI Sickness Benefits is straightforward if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Record of Employment (ROE) from your employer
- Banking details for direct deposit
- Medical certificate from your doctor
Step 2: Apply Online Promptly
- Visit EI Sickness Benefits – Canada.ca
- Apply immediately after stopping work to avoid delays. Don’t wait more than 4 weeks!
Step 3: Complete Application Form
- Fill out personal details, employment history, and banking information.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
- Upload or send in your ROE and medical certificate.
Step 5: Wait for Benefit Statement
- You’ll receive a benefit statement with a 4-digit access code to check your application status.
Step 6: Serve One-Week Waiting Period
- The first week is unpaid—consider it like a deductible period.
Step 7: Start Receiving Payments
- Once approved, payments are made bi-weekly via direct deposit.
Additional Benefits You Can Combine
In certain cases, you might be able to combine EI Sickness Benefits with other support programs:
- Employer’s Short-Term Disability (STD) Plan:
- Receive STD payments first, then apply for EI sickness benefits once those end.
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits:
- If your medical condition is long-term or permanent, CPP Disability may offer additional monthly support.
- Maternity or Parental Benefits:
- If you’re pregnant and suffer complications, you may transition from sickness benefits to maternity benefits.
- Provincial Assistance Programs:
- Provinces like Ontario or Quebec have their own supplementary health support programs you may qualify for.
Professional Insights: What Employers & Employees Should Know
For Employers:
- Encourage employees to apply promptly.
- Provide timely and accurate Records of Employment (ROEs) to avoid application delays.
- Review internal sick leave policies alongside EI benefits to ensure comprehensive employee support.
For Employees:
- Keep a copy of your ROE and medical certificate.
- Use the My Service Canada Account portal to stay updated.
- Understand that taxes are deducted upfront—budget accordingly.
Pros and Cons of EI Sickness Benefits
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides up to $695/week support | 1-week unpaid waiting period |
| Available for up to 26 weeks | Benefit cap may not cover all living costs |
| Covers a range of illnesses, injuries, or quarantine | Requires medical documentation, which can delay application |
| Simple, online application process | Taxable income |
| Can be combined with other benefits | Minimum 600 insurable hours required |
Important Facts & Stats
- 55% Replacement Rate: You’ll receive 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings.
- Maximum Cap: As of 2025, the weekly maximum benefit is $695.
- Average Processing Time: Typically, it takes 28 days from the application date to receive the first payment.
- Over 450,000 Canadians availed sickness benefits in 2023 (Source: Statistics Canada).
Practical Example: Real-Life Scenario
Example: Sarah, a 35-year-old retail worker in Ontario, underwent surgery and needed two months off. She had worked 1,200 hours in the last year and submitted her medical certificate along with her ROE. After the 1-week waiting period, she received $695/week for 8 weeks, helping her manage rent, groceries, and medical bills while recovering.
Tip: Always double-check your ROE submission. Missing or incorrect ROEs are one of the top reasons for application delays.
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FAQs About EI Sickness Benefits Bring $695/Week to the Table
1. Can I apply if I already receive employer-provided sick leave?
Yes. Once your employer-provided benefits end, you can apply for EI Sickness Benefits.
2. Is the benefit taxable?
Yes, federal and provincial taxes are deducted from your payments.
3. Can self-employed individuals apply?
Yes, if you are registered for the EI special benefits for self-employed people and meet contribution requirements.
4. What happens after the 26 weeks?
If you’re still unable to work after 26 weeks, you might be eligible for other programs like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits.
5. How can I check my application status?
Use the My Service Canada Account (MSCA) portal to track your claim and payments.
6. What if I can’t provide my Record of Employment immediately?
Apply anyway. Service Canada will follow up, but delays may occur if the ROE isn’t submitted soon.
7. Is there a way to appeal if my claim is denied?
Yes, you can request a reconsideration through Service Canada if you believe your claim was wrongly denied.
