How to Apply for EI in Canada 2023

Applying for EI

To get started, visit the Employment Insurance Benefits page on the Government of Canada website. Those without internet access can also apply over the phone or in-person at a Service Canada office.

If you’re applying online, the website will take you through a step-by-step application process.

You’ll then have to consent to how the government uses your information. You’ll also need to confirm that you haven’t already started an application.

You’ll then have to answer questions about what type of EI benefits you’re applying for, whether you have access to a reference code. If you don’t know what that is, the answer is most likely no.

At this point in the process, you’ll receive a temporary password. If you cannot complete the application, you can then use the temporary password to pick up where you left off later.

You have 72 hours to complete your application before having to start again. Write down your temporary password and keep it somewhere safe, even if you think you won’t need it.

Next, you’ll select your communication preferences, such as whether you prefer service in English or French and optional contact methods like email and phone.

You’ll also need to enter your mailing address and home address if it’s different. You’ll also answer some questions concerning demographics.

The application process will then ask you for your banking information to receive your funds via direct deposit.

You can also insert the information later. If you don’t have it handy, you can choose to receive your benefits by mail if you prefer not to use direct deposit.

From this point, you’ll then enter information about your employment history, including the dates you’ve worked and how much you made. You’ll need to provide these details for every employer you’ve worked with over the past 52 weeks.

You’ll then answer questions about your relationship with your employer, other programs you may have access to, like workers’ compensation, pensions, and the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP).

You’ll also answer some questions that will help determine your eligibility and asked about other income sources like self-employment income.

Finally, you’ll be asked to agree to your rights and responsibilities as an EI recipient and attest that the information you’re providing is correct. Once you click submit, your application begins processing.