If you’re unable to work due to illness, injury, or medical conditions, Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits in Canada can provide essential financial support while you recover.
As of 2024, eligible workers can receive up to $695 per week for a maximum duration of 26 weeks. This guide outlines everything you need to know about eligibility, the application process, and how to access these benefits.
Overview of EI Sickness Benefits
EI Sickness Benefits are designed to support workers who are temporarily unable to work due to medical conditions, ensuring they do not have to return to work before fully recovering. The maximum benefit amount for 2024 is $695 per week, based on 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | $695 (55% of average insurable weekly earnings) |
| Duration of Benefits | Up to 26 weeks |
| Eligibility | 600 insurable hours worked in the past 52 weeks + medical certificate |
| Waiting Period | 1 week (unpaid) |
| Taxable? | Yes, subject to federal and provincial taxes |
| Application Method | Online via Service Canada or in person at a local office |
What Are EI Sickness Benefits?
These benefits offer temporary financial assistance to workers who are unable to work due to the following medical reasons:
- Illness
- Injury
- Quarantine (e.g., due to infectious diseases)
- Mental health conditions (such as anxiety or depression)
Who Is Eligible for EI Sickness Benefits?
To qualify for EI Sickness Benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- Paid EI Premiums: You must have contributed to EI through payroll deductions.
- 600 Insurable Hours: You must have worked at least 600 insurable hours in the past 52 weeks or since your last EI claim.
- Loss of Income: Your illness must cause you to lose over 40% of your weekly income.
- Medical Certificate: A certified doctor must confirm your inability to work due to medical reasons.
- No Other EI Benefits: You cannot receive regular EI benefits while claiming sickness benefits.
Example
If you worked 40 hours per week for six months, you would have accumulated 960 insurable hours, making you eligible for the sickness benefits.
How Much Money Will You Receive?
The maximum weekly benefit is $695 in 2024, but your benefit amount will depend on your average weekly earnings. Here’s how it works:
- EI covers 55% of your average weekly earnings.
- For example, if your average weekly earnings are $1,000, your benefit would be $550 per week. If you earn more, your benefits are capped at $695 per week.
How to Calculate Your EI Sickness Benefits
- Identify Your Highest Earning Weeks: Find the weeks you earned the most in the last 52 weeks.
- Sum Up Your Earnings: Add up the earnings from your highest-earning weeks.
- Calculate Your Average: Divide by the number of weeks to get your average weekly earnings.
- Multiply by 55%: This will give you your weekly benefit.
- Check the Cap: If your calculation exceeds $695, you will be capped at that amount.
How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits
Applying for EI Sickness Benefits is straightforward, but it’s important to apply as soon as you stop working to avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Gather Your Documents:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Banking details for direct deposit
- Employer information (names, addresses, dates of employment)
- Record of Employment (ROE) (your employer submits this electronically)
- Medical certificate from your doctor
- Apply Online or In-Person:
- Online: Visit Service Canada to complete the application.
- In-Person: Visit a Service Canada office if you need assistance.
- Submit Your Medical Certificate:
Your doctor must complete the medical certificate form confirming your condition and recovery time. Submit it:- Online (upload scanned copies)
- In-person at Service Canada
- By mail (check Service Canada for details)
- Wait for Processing:
EI claims typically take about 28 days to process. Payments will start after the one-week waiting period.
How Long Will EI Sickness Benefits Last?
You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks within a 12-month period. However, if you recover earlier or return to work, your benefits will stop.
Example
If you take 12 weeks off for surgery, you will still have 14 weeks of benefits available for use later in the year.
Taxation of EI Sickness Benefits
EI Sickness Benefits are subject to both federal and provincial taxes. If EI benefits are your only source of income, you may qualify for a tax refund at the end of the year.
Can You Work While Receiving EI Sickness Benefits?
Yes, but with restrictions. Under the Working While on Claim program:
- You can earn up to 50% of your EI benefits without reducing your payments.
- Earnings beyond 50% will reduce your benefits on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
Example
If your weekly EI benefit is $600, you can earn up to $300 without affecting your payment. If you earn $400, your benefits will be reduced by $100.
The EI Sickness Benefits program provides critical financial assistance to workers who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or medical conditions.
By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and how to maximize your benefits, you can ensure you receive the support you need during your recovery. If you meet the qualifications, be sure to apply early and keep track of your benefit payments to avoid delays.
FAQs
How much can I receive from EI Sickness Benefits?
The maximum amount is $695 per week, which is 55% of your average weekly earnings.
Can I apply for EI Sickness Benefits if I am still working part-time?
Yes, you can work part-time, but earnings over 50% of your benefit will reduce your payments.
How long can I receive EI Sickness Benefits?
You can receive EI Sickness Benefits for up to 26 weeks, depending on your recovery and work situation.