How do I apply for EI benefits?

You need to fill out an application online. Or apply at a Service Canada Centre.

To find the form, go to canada.ca/en/services/benefits/apply-privacy.

If you’re not able to apply online or have trouble with the online form, contact Service Canada at 1-800-622-6232. For TTY, call 1-800-926-9105.

When you apply, you need the following information for all of your jobs in the last 52 weeks:

• names and addresses of your employers
• dates you worked for them
• detailed reasons for why you left

You also need:

• your Social Insurance Number and another piece of identification, with your photo if possible,
• your banking information so your EI payments can go into your bank account,
• your mailing address, and
• the dates and what you were paid for each of your highest-paid weeks in your qualifying period.

You must sign a statement that says when your baby is due or was born.

If you’re adopting, the statement must say when the child came to live with you or is coming to live with you. And it must say the name of the adoption agency.

The full list of what you need is part of the online EI application form.

Do I need my Record of Employment?

It’s easier to apply for EI if you have your Record of Employment (ROE). You will need an ROE for every employer you worked for in the past 12 months.

Your employer must send the ROE. They can give you a paper copy, or send an online copy to Service Canada directly.

If your employer sends your ROE directly to Service Canada:

• they do not have to give you a copy, and
• you do not need a copy to apply for EI.

But you can get a copy from Service Canada if you want one.

To see your ROE online, you need to have a MyServiceCanada account. You can access your account or set one up at servicecanada.ca.

Even if you do not have your ROE yet, you should apply for EI as soon as you stop working. You need proof of your employment, such as pay stubs and T4 slips.

If you do not apply within 4 weeks after you start your leave, you will probably get fewer EI payments.

If you’re having problems getting your ROE, you can ask Service Canada for help.

Call the Employment Insurance Telephone Information Service at 1-800-206-7218. For TTY, call 1-800-529-3742.

Or visit Service Canada in person and let them know that your employer is not sending your ROE.

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