EI regular benefits estimator
Estimate EI eligibility, weekly payments, and benefit duration in one place.
Built for workers in Canada who need a fast first-pass answer. This tool uses your EI economic region, insurable hours, and earnings to estimate regular benefits.
Estimate only. Final eligibility is determined by Service Canada.
Step 1 of 5
Claim basics
Your claim date and separation reason determine which ruleset and caution level we apply.
Data: March 15, 2026 to April 11, 2026
How we calculate
The calculator uses your EI economic region, the latest published regional unemployment rate, your insurable hours, and your average insurable weekly earnings.
First, we determine the current entrance requirement and the number of best weeks for your region. Then we apply the official regular-benefit tables to estimate weeks payable. Finally, we calculate 55% of your weekly insurable earnings, subject to the annual EI maximum.
If your case involves quitting, dismissal, a recent EI claim, or a prior violation, we downgrade the result to manual review because Service Canada may apply additional rules.
FAQ
How many hours do I need for EI?
It depends on the unemployment rate in your EI economic region. In lower-unemployment regions, you may need 700 insurable hours. In higher-unemployment regions, the threshold can drop to 420 hours.
How much EI can I get per week?
For most regular-benefit claims, EI pays 55% of average insurable weekly earnings up to the yearly maximum. Under the latest configured ruleset, the weekly maximum is $729.
Does severance delay EI?
It can. Canada's temporary EI measures currently waive some separation-earnings allocation rules for claims in the active window, but outside that window severance or pay in lieu may delay payments.
Can I work while receiving EI?
Often yes, but your EI may be reduced depending on how much you earn while on claim. This tool does not estimate earnings-while-on-claim deductions.
Who should not rely on this calculator?
If you quit, were dismissed, had a recent EI claim, have a violation notice, or fall under special EI programs, use this tool only as a rough starting point and rely on Service Canada for the final decision.