What these benefits offer
EI sickness benefits can provide you with up to 26 weeks of financial assistance if you can't work for medical reasons. You could receive 55% of your earnings up to a maximum of $729 a week.
You must get a medical certificate showing that you’re unable to work for medical reasons and for approximately how long. Medical reasons include illness, injury, quarantine or any medical condition that prevents you from working.
Find out if you have employer-paid sick leave
Some employers provide their own paid sick leave or short-term disability plan. Before you apply for EI sickness benefits, check with your employer to find out if they have a plan in place.
If you have a long-term or permanent disability
If your medical condition is expected to be long-term or permanent, you may be eligible for other benefits, such as:
If you get sick or require bed rest during pregnancy
If you have health complications during pregnancy, you could be eligible for sickness benefits or maternity benefits. You must meet the conditions for each benefit.