Employment Insurance (EI) is an insurance-based program that provides temporary income support in the event of a job loss or other life event. It has formed an important part of Canada’s social safety net since its implementation in 1940.
To help people who are seeking information and understanding about potential EI financial assistance provided by the Government of Canada, Service Canada is pleased to announce the launch of the new online EI Benefits Estimator. This new digital tool enables workers to obtain an estimate of the EI benefits to which they may be eligible.
The EI Benefits Estimator not only estimates the possible amount and number of weeks of Employment Insurance benefits, but it also provides users with simplified information about EI benefits, clear guidance on the EI application process and the necessary information to complete it. Once provided with the estimate, users are encouraged to apply for benefits to determine their eligibility and actual benefit entitlement.
This innovative tool not only supports Service Canada’s commitment to innovating and improving services but also helps Canadians reduce the financial stress during key life transitions.
Frequently asked questions
1) What is the EI Benefits Estimator?
The Employment Insurance Benefits Estimator is a new digital tool that enables users to obtain an estimate of the EI benefits to which they may be eligible.
2) How can I find the EI Benefits Estimator?
The EI Benefits Estimator is located on Canada.ca/EI. Access it directly by visiting the EI Benefits Estimator.
3) How does it work?
Basic EI Program rules are used to establish possible eligibility and benefit amount estimates based on the answers provided by the user on:
- Their employment status: employee, self-employed or fisher
- The reason (real or anticipated) why they are no longer working
- Their postal code so that the estimate reflects their provincial or regional requirements
- The number of hours worked in the last 12 months (600 hours required for special benefits)
- Their earnings
4) Who can use it?
The online tool can be used by all people who wish to receive an estimate of how much they might be eligible to if they applied for EI, but it was specifically developed for individuals who:
- Have lost their job due to no fault of their own
- Are pregnant
- Are taking a leave from work for health reasons, to take care for a new-born, to adopt a child or to take care of family
- Anticipate losing their job
- Have already submitted an application
5) Does the EI Benefits Estimator work on iOS? Android?
Yes. The EI Benefits Estimator accommodates all devices.
6) Will completing the EI Benefits Estimator be equivalent to submitting an application for EI benefits?
No, nothing the user enters into the EI Benefits Estimator is linked to their file and no information is collected that could lead to identify them. Their EI Benefits Estimator results cannot be used in an application for benefits, nor can they be used to appeal an EI decision. Once provided with the estimate, users are encouraged to apply for benefits to determine their eligibility and actual benefit entitlement.
7) After using the EI Benefits Estimator, is there a way I can provide feedback about my experience?
You can provide feedback on your experience using the “give your feedback” link at the top of the page of the EI Benefits Estimator. Your feedback will help us make government digital services simpler and easier to use.
8) Where does someone go if they have questions on how to use the EI Benefits Estimator or need more information?
Visit Canada.ca – Contact Employment Insurance to explore the contact options.