The Government of Canada announced that they made changes to the EI benefit claim.
As of August 6, 2023, the EI program characteristics for the EI benefit you now need to claim 455 hours to be qualified for EI benefits and not 420 as previous years.
Everyone will now need between 455 and 700 hours of insurable employment during the qualifying period to qualify for regular benefits.
To receive EI Regular benefits, you need to demonstrate that you:
• were employed in insurable employment.
• lost your job through no fault of your own.
• are affected by flooding or wildfires.
• have been without work and without pay for at least 7 consecutive days in the last 52 weeks.
• have worked for the required number of insurable employment hours in the last 52 weeks or since the start of your last EI claim, whichever is shorter.
• are ready, willing and capable of working each day are actively looking for work (you must keep a written record of employers you contact, including when you contacted them)
To prove your eligibility and to receive payments you may be entitled to, you’re required to complete bi-weekly reports by internet or telephone.
Failure to do so can mean a loss of benefits, for more information you can call the EI benefit number at 1-800-206-7218.