EI Sickness Benefits Canada – Get Up to $695/Week for Recovery

EI Sickness Benefits: Key Details

Understanding the eligibility and payment process can help you apply without delays.

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 due to medical reasons

• Lost at least 40% of weekly income
• Worked 600+ insured hours in the last 52 weeks |
  | Application Process | Online through the Government of Canada website |
  | Medical Documentation Required | A medical certificate from a doctor or approved practitioner |
  | Waiting Period | 1 week (unpaid) before benefits start |
  | Alternative Financial Aid | CPP Disability, Workers’ Compensation, Private Insurance, Provincial Sick Leave Programs |

How Much Can You Receive from EI Sickness Benefits?

EI sickness benefits cover 55% of your average weekly earnings, with a maximum payout of $695 per week.

Example Calculations:

• If you earn $800 per week, you’ll receive $440 per week (55% of your earnings).
• If you earn $1,500 per week, you’ll receive the maximum $695 per week (capped limit).

How Long Can You Receive EI Sickness Benefits?

The duration of EI sickness benefits was recently extended from 15 weeks to 26 weeks, allowing workers more time to recover before returning to work.

Do You Qualify? EI Sickness Benefits Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for EI sickness benefits, you must meet the following conditions:

• You’re unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine.
• Your regular weekly earnings have decreased by at least 40%.
• You have worked at least 600 insured hours in the past 52 weeks or since your last claim.
• You have a medical certificate from a healthcare provider confirming your condition.

Who Doesn’t Qualify?

• Workers who haven’t accumulated 600 insured hours in the past year.
• Self-employed individuals unless they have paid into the EI program.
• Workers already receiving other federal disability benefits (such as CPP Disability).

If you don’t qualify, alternative financial aid options are available.

How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits – Step-by-Step Guide

Applying correctly is crucial to avoid delays. Follow these steps to complete your application successfully.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before applying, prepare the following documents:

• 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

• Visit the Government of Canada’s EI Sickness Benefits page.
• Click Apply Now and follow the instructions.
• It takes about 60 minutes to complete the application.

Pro Tip: Apply as soon as you stop working—you don’t need your Record of Employment (ROE) to start the application.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Your employer may submit your ROE electronically.
• If not, request a copy from your employer and upload it manually.
• You may also need to submit your medical certificate.

Step 4: Receive a Benefit Statement

After applying, you’ll receive:

• A 4-digit access code to track your claim.
• Instructions on how to submit biweekly reports (to confirm eligibility).

Step 5: Receive Payments

• Expect your first EI payment within 28 days if everything is correct.
• Payments are made via direct deposit into your bank account.

Common Mistakes That Delay EI Sickness Benefit Approvals

Many applications get delayed due to avoidable mistakes. Ensure you don’t make these errors:

• Applying too late (more than 4 weeks after stopping work).
• Incorrect employer details (missing or inaccurate information).
• Not submitting a medical certificate from a healthcare provider.
• Forgetting to submit biweekly reports (required to maintain eligibility).

What If You Don’t Qualify? Alternative Financial Support Options

If you don’t meet EI eligibility requirements or your illness lasts longer than 26 weeks, other programs may provide assistance:

Financial Aid Program	Eligibility	Benefit Amount
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability	For long-term or permanent disabilities	Varies based on earnings
Workers’ Compensation	For work-related injuries	Covers lost wages and medical expenses
Private Short-Term Disability Insurance	If your employer offers a plan	Depends on employer policy
Provincial Sick Leave Programs	Varies by province	May provide paid sick leave benefits

Returning to Work After Receiving EI Sickness Benefits

Once you’re ready to return to work, you have a few options:

• Gradual return: Start part-time before resuming full hours.
• Workplace accommodations: Request lighter duties or remote work if needed.
• Work-Sharing Program: Allows employees to work reduced hours while still receiving partial EI benefits.

Important:

• If you return earlier or later than expected, inform Service Canada to avoid overpayments or penalties.

FAQs

How much will I receive from EI sickness benefits?

You’ll receive 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week.

How long can I receive EI sickness benefits?

You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks.

Do I need a medical certificate to apply?

Yes, a doctor or medical practitioner must confirm your condition with a medical certificate.

What happens if my application is delayed?

Delays usually occur due to missing documents or incorrect information. Double-check your employer details, medical certificate, and banking information.

Can I work while receiving EI sickness benefits?

You may earn some income, but you must report any earnings, and your benefits may be reduced.

How do I know if my claim is approved?

You will receive a Benefit Statement with a 4-digit access code to track your status.

What if I’m still sick after 26 weeks?

You may qualify for CPP Disability Benefits, Workers’ Compensation, or private disability insurance.

Conclusion

EI Sickness Benefits in Canada provide essential financial support for those unable to work due to illness or injury. By applying early, ensuring correct documentation, and exploring alternative options if needed, you can focus on recovery without financial worry.

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