Employment Insurance Benefits for Self-Employed People

Beginning in January 2011, self-employed Canadians will be able to access Employment Insurance (EI) special benefits.

There are four types of EI special benefits:

  • Maternity benefits;
  • Parental benefits;
  • Sickness benefits; and
  • Compassionate care benefits.

Service Canada has set up information how to contribute to EI, it will cost $737 per year.This premium will entitle you to 15 weeks sick leave or maternity benefits.

You must register between Jan 31 2010, and April 2010 to qualify for benefits in 2011.

Eligibility information

You may be eligible to access EI special benefits beginning in January 2011 if you:

  • Are a self-employed person; and
  • Are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada; and
  • Have entered into an agreement with the Canada Employment Insurance Commission through Service Canada.

Application information

As a self-employed person, you will be able to enter into an agreement with the Commission through Service Canada starting on January 31, 2010.

Self-employed persons will be able to enter into an agreement beginning January 31, 2010.

If you enter into an agreement between January 31, 2010 and April 1, 2010, you will be able to make a claim for EI special benefits as early as January 2011. However, if you enter into an agreement with the Canada Employment Insurance Commission after April 1, 2010, you will have to wait 12 months before you will be able to make a claim for EI special benefits.

For more information, please go to Service Canada.

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