EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE: Some Improvements

25 Oct EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE: Some Improvements

The 2017 Federal Budget proposed a number of changes to Employment Insurance (EI). Some of the proposals include the following:

A New Caregiving Benefit

This benefit will provide eligible caregivers up to 15 weeks of EI benefits while they are temporarily away from work to support or care for a critically ill or injured family member.

More Flexible Parental Benefits

This will allow parents to choose to receive EI parental benefits over an extended period (up to 18 months) at a lower benefit rate (33% of average weekly earnings). The existing benefit rate (55% over a period of up to 12 months) will remain available for parents who prefer this arrangement. Finally, women will be able to claim EI maternity benefits up to 12 weeks before their due date (expanded from the current standard of 8 weeks).

Education While Receiving EI Benefits

Changes to enhance the ability of EI claimants to pursue self-funded training while maintaining their EI status were proposed.

Action Item: Ensure you are aware of these changes to Employment Insurance.

This publication is produced by Andrews & Co. as an information service to clients and friends of the firm, and is not intended to substitute for competent professional advice. No action should be initiated without consulting your professional advisors.