EI sickness benefits

FederalWorkChecked October 2, 2026

EI sickness benefits pay part of your income when you can't work for medical reasons. You can get up to 26 weeks.

How much

55% of earnings up to $729/week (2026), for up to 26 weeks.

When it's paid

Paid every two weeks after bi-weekly reports. Taxable.

Who qualifies

Unable to work because of illness, injury, quarantine or another medical reason
Regular weekly earnings have dropped significantly
Enough insurable hours in the past 52 weeks
Have a medical certificate

How to apply

Check your employer's sick leave or disability insurance first
Apply online as soon as you stop working
Get a medical certificate from your doctor or nurse practitioner
Keep it in case Service Canada asks for it

What to have ready

Social Insurance Number
Record of employment
Medical certificate
Banking information

Common mistakes to avoid

Delaying the application
Not getting a medical certificate
Not looking at CPP disability for long-term conditions

Still being confirmed: Exact hours and earnings-drop requirements were not re-read on the eligibility subpage. Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

EI sickness benefits ↗

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

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BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.