How is my EI weekly benefit calculated?

Your weekly EI benefit is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings over your best 14 to 22 weeks in the last 52 weeks. The weekly benefit is capped at the maximum based on the Maximum Insurable Earnings (MIE): $65,700 × 55% / 52 ≈ $695/week for 2026. You cannot receive more than this cap regardless of your earnings.

How many weeks of EI can I receive?

The number of weeks depends on two factors: (1) your insurable hours worked in the last 52 weeks (you need 420–700 hours to qualify, varying by regional unemployment rate), and (2) the unemployment rate in your economic region. Benefit duration ranges from 14 to 45 weeks. Higher regional unemployment = more potential weeks.

Is there a waiting period before EI starts?

Yes — there is a standard 1-week waiting period after your last day of work before EI payments begin (reduced from 2 weeks in 2017 under Bill C-26). You are not paid for that week; it functions like a deductible. Some employers top up EI during the waiting period under their group benefits, but this is not universal.

Yes. EI benefits are fully taxable income. Service Canada withholds income tax based on your expected annual income, but you may owe additional tax or receive a refund when you file. Add your estimated EI income to your return on line 11900.

Does quitting disqualify me from EI?

Generally yes — voluntarily leaving a job without 'just cause' disqualifies you from regular EI benefits. Just cause includes leaving due to sexual harassment, significant changes to working conditions, or domestic violence. If you voluntarily quit, you should consult Service Canada before assuming you're disqualified.

What is the minimum hours requirement?

You need between 420 and 700 insurable hours in the qualifying period (last 52 weeks or since your last EI claim). The exact threshold depends on your regional unemployment rate: higher unemployment = fewer hours required. New entrants and re-entrants to the workforce require 910 hours.

EI Benefits Estimator (Canada)

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Free Canadian Employment Insurance benefits calculator. Distinct from EI premiums — this tool estimates how much EI you would receive if laid off. Enter your average insurable weekly earnings, insurable hours worked, and regional unemployment rate to see your weekly EI benefit (55% of earnings, capped at the 2026 maximum), maximum weeks payable (14–45 weeks depending on region and hours; sickness benefits cap at 26 weeks), and total potential payout. Includes 1-week waiting period note and taxability reminder.

Average insurable weekly earnings (CAD)

Gross weekly pay from your best 14–22 weeks in the last 52. Cap: $1,263/wk.

Economic region

Insurable hours in last 52 weeks

Full-time ~1,820 hrs/yr. Regular EI: 420–700 hrs (varies by region) · Sickness: 600 hrs (single national threshold).

Reason for separation

2026 · MIE $65,700 · Weekly cap: $695/wk · Rate: 55%

1-week waiting period applies · EI is taxable income

Weekly EI benefit

$660

capped at $695/wk · 55% of insurable earnings

Regional unemployment rate7.9%

Maximum weeks payable22 wks

Qualifying hours needed630 hrs

Total potential benefit$14,520

After 1-week waiting period

Weeks paid21 wks

Expected payout$13,860

EI is taxable income — tax will be withheld from payments.

Updated for 2026 · ESDC-confirmed · Estimates only · verify eligibility with Service Canada before relying on this estimate.

Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This is not financial, tax, or legal advice — consult a licensed professional before making decisions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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