Apply for EI regular benefits
Where do I apply for EI after losing my job?
Use the Employment Insurance regular-benefits guide to find the qualification rules and official online application. Service Canada warns against delaying an application while gathering records: supporting documents can follow. The application asks about your work history and circumstances. Check the current instructions promptly rather than relying on a general estimate of eligibility or payment.
Where to begin
- Read the official qualification and application guidance promptly.
- Follow the preparation checklist without waiting unnecessarily for documents.
- Apply through Service Canada and follow its requests after submission.
Before you open the official service
Apply promptly after stopping work; do not wait for a Record of Employment.
- Prepare your SIN, contact and banking details, and one parent’s last name at birth. A SIN beginning with 9 also requires proof of immigration status and a work permit.
- List employers, employment dates and reasons for leaving during the last 52 weeks or since your last claim, whichever period is shorter. Provide the additional details requested for quitting or dismissal.
Keep your actual documents and account details off this website. Use the official service’s current checklist before applying.
What to check for your situation
Service Canada determines eligibility and payment. This guide does not calculate entitlement or recommend ending an existing claim.
Fees, processing times and document rules can change. This page helps you navigate; it does not confirm eligibility or replace the government’s instructions.
Forms and checklists
Practical questions
How long can this route take?
Service Canada’s decision standard is 28 days after applying, with a target of meeting it 80% of the time. It is not a guaranteed payment date.
- Use My Service Canada Account to check status and messages. Complete required reports every two weeks; eligibility, complete information and reporting affect payment.
Official sources
Prepared by Active K Digital from the linked public guidance. Read our source approach.