EI Sickness Benefits: How to Claim Up to $695 Per Week for Recovery

An unexpected illness or injury can disrupt your life, but financial stability doesn’t have to be one of your worries. Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits in Canada offer up to $695 per week, covering 55% of weekly earnings for workers who cannot work due to medical reasons.

With a streamlined online application process and payments typically arriving within 28 days, EI sickness benefits serve as a critical safety net. However, strict eligibility requirements mean not everyone qualifies. Here’s everything you need to know about securing your benefits and exploring alternative financial aid options.

Key EI Sickness Benefit Details

Feature	Details
Maximum Weekly Benefit	Up to $695 per week
Coverage Percentage	55% of insurable weekly earnings
Benefit Duration	Up to 26 weeks (previously 15 weeks)
Eligibility Requirements	600+ insurable work hours, medical certificate, 40% income reduction
Application Process	Online through the Government of Canada website
Medical Documentation	Required from a doctor or approved medical practitioner
Waiting Period	1 week (unpaid) before benefits begin
Other Financial Aid Options	CPP Disability, Workers’ Compensation, Private Insurance, Provincial Sick Leave Programs

These benefits help thousands of Canadians recover without financial stress. If you meet the criteria, applying early ensures you receive assistance when you need it most.

How Much Can You Receive?

The EI sickness benefit replaces 55% of your weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week.

Example Calculations:

• If you earn $800 per week, your benefit amount is $440 per week (55% of earnings).
• If you earn $1,500 per week, you receive the maximum of $695 per week (since the benefit is capped).

For those needing longer-term support, other financial aid options may be necessary.

Who Qualifies for EI Sickness Benefits?

To receive EI sickness benefits, you must meet these eligibility requirements:

• Medical Condition Prevents Work – You are unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine.
• Significant Income Reduction – Your regular weekly earnings must be reduced by at least 40%.
• Sufficient Work History – You must have worked at least 600 insured hours in the last 52 weeks or since your last claim.
• Medical Certificate Required – A doctor or approved healthcare provider must confirm your condition.

Exception: If you don’t have 600 hours, alternative support such as provincial sick leave programs or disability benefits may be available.

How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits

Applying is straightforward, but missing key details can delay your claim. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Before you apply, prepare:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Direct deposit banking details
• Employer history for the past 52 weeks
• Medical certificate from a doctor

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

• Apply online at the Government of Canada’s EI Sickness Benefits page.
• The process takes about an hour to complete.
• Apply immediately after stopping work—you don’t need your Record of Employment (ROE) to apply.

Step 3: Submit Additional Documents

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

Step 4: Receive a Benefit Statement

• Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a four-digit access code to track your status.
• You must submit biweekly reports to continue receiving benefits.

Step 5: Receive Payments

• Expect the first payment within 28 days if all documents are in order.
• Payments are directly deposited into your bank account.

Common Mistakes That Delay Payments

Avoid these errors to ensure a fast approval process:

• Applying too late – Applications should be submitted within 4 weeks of stopping work.
• Missing or incorrect information – Double-check employer details and work history.
• Not submitting a medical certificate – This is mandatory for approval.
• Failing to submit biweekly reports – Required to continue receiving payments.

By staying proactive, you can prevent delays and receive your benefits on time.

Alternative Financial Aid Options

If you don’t qualify for EI sickness benefits or need support beyond 26 weeks, consider these alternatives:

• Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits – For long-term or permanent disabilities.
• Workers’ Compensation – Available if your illness or injury is work-related.
• Private Short-Term Disability Insurance – Check if your employer offers disability coverage.
• Provincial Sick Leave Programs – Some provinces offer additional financial aid for medical leave.

Exploring these options early ensures continued financial stability if EI benefits run out.

Returning to Work After EI Sickness Benefits

Once you’re ready to resume work, consider:

• Gradual Return – Start with reduced hours before transitioning back to full-time work.
• Workplace Accommodations – Request lighter workloads or flexible work arrangements if needed.
• Work-Sharing Benefits – A program that allows employees to work fewer hours while receiving EI support.

Important: Inform Service Canada if you return to work earlier or later than expected.

FAQs

How long can I receive EI sickness benefits?

You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks, an increase from the previous 15-week limit.

How much will I receive in EI sickness benefits?

The program covers 55% of your weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week.

What happens if I don’t meet the 600-hour requirement?

You may be eligible for other benefits, such as provincial sick leave programs or disability assistance.

Do I need a doctor’s note to apply?

Yes, a medical certificate from a healthcare provider is required for approval.

How long does it take to receive my first payment?

If all documents are submitted correctly, expect your first payment within 28 days.

Can I work part-time while receiving EI sickness benefits?

You can work limited hours, but any earnings must be reported, and your benefit amount may be adjusted.

What if my illness lasts longer than 26 weeks?

You may need to apply for CPP Disability Benefits or other long-term financial assistance.

How do I avoid delays in my application?

Ensure all documents are correct, apply on time, and submit biweekly reports as required.

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