By 2025, Canada's EI benefits will increase, with an additional $1000 for unemployment, maternity leave, and illness

As the cost of living and unemployment continue to rise, employment insurance (EI) is becoming increasingly important for many Canadians.

This year, eligible EI recipients not only receive more benefits but also pay less premiums.

Starting from January 1, 2025, Canada's maximum insurable income (MIE) will increase from $63200 to $65700. This means that EI recipients can receive a higher maximum benefit amount.

At the same time, EI premiums have also been reduced:

Employee premium rate: from $1.66 per $100 income to $1.64

Employer premium rate: from $2.32/per $100 income to $2.30

However, due to the MIE increase, the maximum annual EI contribution for employees will increase from $1049.12 to $1077.48 (an increase of $28.36), and the employer's contribution will increase to $1508.47 (an increase of $39.70).

You can receive up to $695 per week and over $1200 annually! Under the new policy, the maximum weekly benefit amount for EI recipients will be increased from $668 to $695, with an additional $27 per week! In addition, the maximum weekly amount for extending parental benefits has increased from $401 to $417.

According to the latest standard calculation:

14 weeks: An additional $378 can be claimed

45 weeks: An additional $1215 can be claimed

The maximum EI claim amount for the whole year will increase to:

14 weeks:$ 9,730

45 weeks:$ 31,275

For Canadians who are currently receiving EI, this is undoubtedly a significant subsidy.

EI is not only applicable to the unemployed, but also to employees who are temporarily unable to work due to special reasons, including:

Pregnant or new parents

Illness or injury

Need to take care of critically ill or dying relatives

In addition, only employees who have paid EI premiums in the past year are eligible to receive them, and self-employed individuals can also choose to pay EI premiums to ensure a guarantee during uncertain periods.

Premium reduction, up to $695 per week

Can receive up to 45 weeks, totaling $31275

Eligible recipients can receive up to $1215 more this year!

In the current economic environment, this adjustment undoubtedly can alleviate economic pressure for many Canadians. If you meet the requirements, don't forget to pay attention to your EI application status to ensure timely receipt of this benefit!

Source: https://dailyhive.com/canada/ei-employment-insurance-canada-premiums-2025