EI Calculator (2026)
Two questions matter with EI: do you qualify, and how much would you get? Enter your insurable earnings for a weekly benefit estimate — and read the hours rule below, because it changes with where you live.
Estimated weekly EI benefit
$0
How many hours you need, and what you'd get
To qualify for EI regular benefits you need between 420 and 700 insurable hours in the last 52 weeks. There's no single number because it's tied to your region's unemployment rate: where unemployment is high, the bar drops toward 420 hours; where it's low, it climbs toward 700. Service Canada publishes the figure for each economic region every month, so check the current one for your area.
If you qualify, EI regular benefits pay 55% of your average weekly insurable earnings, capped by the 2026 maximum insurable earnings of $68,900 — a ceiling of about $729 a week. The estimate above applies that 55% to your income; your actual benefit depends on your best weeks of earnings and your region.
Common questions
How many hours do you need for EI in Canada?
Generally 420 to 700 insurable hours in the last 52 weeks. The exact number depends on your region's unemployment rate — high unemployment lowers the bar toward 420, low unemployment raises it toward 700. Service Canada sets it for your economic region each month.
What are the eligibility requirements for EI in Canada?
You must have lost your job through no fault of your own, worked enough insurable hours (420–700 by region), had EI premiums deducted, and be ready and able to work — plus have gone at least seven consecutive days without work and pay.
How much will I get from EI?
EI regular benefits pay 55% of your average weekly insurable earnings, up to about $729 a week in 2026 (based on $68,900 maximum insurable earnings). Enter your income above for an estimate.
How much EI is deducted from my pay?
EI premiums are 1.63% of insurable earnings in 2026, capped at $1,123.07 on the first $68,900. After that cap, no more EI comes off for the rest of the year.