Overview of EI Benefits

The Government of Canada website has a section on employment insurance (EI) and teachers.

Regular benefits are available to teachers who

• have lost their jobs through no fault of their own,
• are able to work and
• are temporarily unable to find work.

Teachers are eligible to apply for regular benefits if they

• have paid EI premiums,
• have been without work for at least seven consecutive days and
• have worked a specified number of hours based on the unemployment rate in their area.

If approved for regular benefits, teachers must

• actively seek employment throughout a claim and
• keep records of their job search for EI audit purposes.

Special Benefits

1. Maternity
2. Parental/adoption
3. Sickness benefits
4. Compassionate care benefits

Special benefits periods sometimes happen during regular benefit periods. Contact Service Canada to determine if you qualify for combined benefits.

Generally, EI benefits are different depending on a teacher’s contract status. You will need expert advice in how to best access your EI benefits. Contact Teacher Employment Services (TES).