The Employment Insurance (EI) program provides temporary income support to unemployed workers while they look for employment or to upgrade their skills. The EI program also provides special benefits to workers who take time off work due to specific life events:
- illness
- pregnancy
- caring for a newborn or newly adopted child
- caring for a critically ill or injured person
- caring for a family member who is seriously ill with a significant risk of death
Workers receive EI benefits only if they have paid premiums in the past year and meet qualifying and entitlement conditions. Self-employed workers may participate in EI and receive special benefits.
Call the toll free number or visit the website for locations and instructions.
