Get Up to $695 Weekly with EI Sickness Benefits – See If You Qualify!

Introduction

Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits are a lifeline for Canadian workers unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine. As of 2025, eligible individuals can receive up to $695 per week, depending on their earnings. These benefits help bridge the gap while individuals focus on recovery without the added burden of financial stress. In this article, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria, payment structure, application process, and more.

What Are EI Sickness Benefits?

EI Sickness Benefits provide temporary income support to employees who are unable to work because of medical reasons but would otherwise be available for work. The benefits last up to 15 weeks.

Key Highlights of EI Sickness Benefits in 2025

Feature	Details
Weekly Benefit Amount	Up to $695/week (55% of average earnings)
Maximum Duration	Up to 15 weeks
Waiting Period	1 week (non-payable)
Medical Certificate	Required from a medical professional
Taxable?	Yes
Application Method	Online via Service Canada

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for EI Sickness Benefits, you must meet the following conditions:

• You are unable to work for medical reasons (illness, injury, or quarantine).
• Your normal weekly earnings have been reduced by more than 40%.
• You accumulated at least 600 insured hours of work in the last 52 weeks or since your last EI claim.
• You must provide a medical certificate confirming the illness and duration of expected absence.
• You must have paid into EI (Employment Insurance premiums) during your employment.

How to Apply for EI Sickness Benefits

Step 1: Gather Required Information

• SIN (Social Insurance Number)
• Record of Employment (ROE)
• Banking info for direct deposit
• Medical certificate

Step 2: Apply Online

• Visit Service Canada’s website.
• Submit your application as soon as you stop working — even if you don’t yet have your ROE or medical certificate.

Step 3: Submit Additional Documents

• Upload your medical certificate and any requested documents online.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

• You will receive a benefit statement and access code. If approved, payments start after the 1-week waiting period.

What Medical Reasons Qualify?

EI Sickness Benefits cover a range of conditions including:

• Surgery recovery
• Mental health challenges (e.g. depression, anxiety)
• Cancer treatment
• COVID-19 or other infectious diseases
• Chronic illnesses (e.g. diabetes complications)
• Pregnancy complications (not regular maternity)

How Is the Benefit Amount Calculated?

• EI benefits pay 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695/week.
• If you earned more, you’ll still only receive the capped amount.

What Happens If You Return to Work Early?

If you return to work before your benefit ends:

• Your benefits stop as soon as you start earning again.
• You must inform Service Canada of your return to work.
• Overpayments must be repaid if you continue receiving benefits after working.

Additional Support Programs

Depending on your situation, you may also qualify for:

• Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) (in emergency pandemic situations)
• Canada Worker Benefit (CWB)
• Long-term disability insurance from your employer
• Maternity or Parental EI Benefits if relevant

Conclusion

EI Sickness Benefits offer crucial financial relief for Canadians who are unable to work due to medical reasons. With up to $695 per week for 15 weeks, this benefit can help you stay afloat during recovery. Apply as early as possible, ensure your documentation is ready, and check with Service Canada for any updates or changes.

FAQs