What's the 2025 EI rate?

Federal: 1.66% on insurable earnings up to $65,700, for a maximum employee premium of $1,090.50. Quebec: 1.31% (reduced because Quebec runs its own QPIP for parental benefits), max $860.67.

Why is Quebec's rate lower?

Quebec administers its own Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP), which provides maternity, paternity, parental, and adoption benefits separately from federal EI. The federal EI rate is reduced for Quebec workers because federal EI doesn't cover those benefits there.

Do I pay EI as self-employed?

Standard EI premiums are not deducted from self-employed income. However, self-employed individuals can opt into the EI Special Benefits program (sickness, maternity, parental, compassionate care) by registering with the Canada Employment Insurance Commission and paying premiums voluntarily.

Does my employer pay EI too?

Yes — employers pay 1.4 times the employee premium (so the employer share for a max-premium employee is $1,526.70 federal, $1,205 in Quebec).

When do I stop paying EI?

Once you've paid the maximum annual premium ($1,090.50 federal / $860.67 Quebec), no further EI is deducted that calendar year. New employer = restart of the deduction; you'll claim the over-payment on your tax return.

EI Premium Calculator (Canada)

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Free Canadian EI premium calculator. Compute your 2025 employee EI deduction at the federal rate of 1.66% (or 1.31% if you live in Quebec) on insurable earnings up to the maximum of $65,700. See your annual premium, monthly equivalent, and the employer's 1.4× contribution. Self-employed individuals do not pay standard EI premiums.

Gross annual income (CAD)

Jurisdiction

2025 · MIE $65,700 · Max federal $1090.62 · Max QC $860.67

Employer pays 1.4× employee premium · Self-employed exempt by default

Annual EI premium

$996.00

$83.00 / month · capped at $1,090.62

Rate applied1.66%

Employer match (1.4×)$1,394.40

Total funded$2,390.40

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

Frequently Asked Questions

References

EI premium rates and maximums — Canada Revenue Agency

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Frequently Asked Questions

References and sources

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