Please be advised that this site is not affiliated with the Service Canada office.
It was created to provide general EI information only.
How to apply for Employment Insurance
Affected workers are encouraged to apply for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits online, as soon as possible, even without a Record of Employment.
Service Canada no longer issues regional reference codes with respect to flooding or wildfires claims.
You need your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to apply for EI benefits. If you don’t know your SIN or do not have a SIN, you can apply for a SIN or find your SIN number by following the steps outlined.
To process your application, Service Canada needs a mailing address and a residential address for you.
- Provide a mailing address where you can receive mail (note: you can update this address later). For example:
- friend
- family
- temporary shelter
- Provide your usual residential address (even if you are temporarily living somewhere else due to the flooding or wildfires)
Important: To receive your EI benefits, you must complete and file your claimant reports online or by phone every 2 weeks.
To receive your payments without any postal delay due to flooding or wildfires, we encourage Canadians to register with direct deposit. Not only will you be able to access your payments more quickly, they will never be lost, stolen or damaged.
You can easily sign up for direct deposit online by sending an eServiceCanada request. A representative will contact you by telephone within 2 business days. For information or if you need to speak to an officer to complete your application, please contact the EI call centre at 1-800-206-7218.
If a client requires further support and assistance to access service, help is available through an eServiceCanada request. This is available online and on mobile phones.
Money from government, the Red Cross and other relief allocations
You are not required to declare money you receive from government, the Red Cross, an insurance company or a charitable organization in your report cards. Emergency relief funds are not considered income for the purpose of Employment Insurance. All other amounts must be declared.
If you do not have internet service
If clients do not have access to the internet or face other barriers, they can call the Service Canada Outreach Support Centre toll-free at 1-877-355-2657 to receive assistance from a Service Canada representative.
source: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/hazardous-weather.html
If you want to learn more about the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), including who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when payments are issued, visit Tax Service Canada’s Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Guide. This comprehensive resource explains the eligibility requirements, payment amounts for individuals and families, application details for new residents, and important CRA payment dates. With the CGEB replacing the GST/HST Credit in July 2026 and providing increased support to millions of Canadians, staying informed can help ensure you receive every benefit you are entitled to.
If you receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), now is the time to ensure your benefits continue without interruption. GIS eligibility is reviewed annually, and failing to file your income tax return or complete any required renewal steps could result in your payments being reduced or stopped starting in July 2026. Service Canada uses your most recent income information to determine your eligibility and payment amount for the 2026–2027 benefit year. To avoid delays or disruptions to your monthly GIS payments, review the renewal requirements today. Visit the GIS Renewal page for a complete guide and important updates.
Never miss an Old Age Security payment by bookmarking our dedicated 2026 OAS Payment Schedule page today. Managing your retirement budget is much easier when you know exactly when your funds will arrive in your account. By saving this link, you’ll have instant, one-click access to the most up-to-date distribution dates and any schedule adjustments throughout the year. Stay organized and gain peace of mind by keeping this essential resource right at your fingertips. Bookmark us now and ensure you’re always prepared for your upcoming monthly payments!
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