Work has changed.
Losing work or changing hours can raise several practical questions at once. The official EI application and reporting services are separate. Start with the application guidance, then follow the instructions for any claim you actually submit.
Apply for EI regular benefits
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.
Submit an Employment Insurance report
People receiving EI may need to report work, earnings and other circumstances to continue their claim. The official reporting guide explains what to include and the available submission methods. After reporting, use the next due date given by the service. If you notice an error in a submitted report, follow Service Canada's correction instructions.
Find federal benefits and support
The federal Benefits Finder narrows programs by the kind of support you need and the audience they serve. It is a useful starting point when you do not know a program's name. Results cover federal benefits; choosing a province or territory provides a separate link for that government's programs rather than a combined eligibility decision.
Keep these distinctions in mind
- Read current application instructions promptly; do not use this guide to decide when a deadline applies to you.
- Filing a report is not the same as opening a claim.
- Other support programs may have their own criteria and application routes.
These steps are a starting sequence, not a mandatory or complete list for every person. Check the official guidance for your situation.