The Government of Canada has announced a six-month extension of critical Employment Insurance (EI) temporary measures to support workers impacted by international tariffs. Discover how these changes affect waiting periods, severance pay, and benefit duration through October 2026.

Starting April 1, 2026, Canada introduces the new Employment Insurance (EI) Board of Appeal. Learn how this regional, tripartite system replaces the SST General Division to provide faster, fairer decisions for workers and employers.

2026 Federal Government Benefit Payment Calendar

In 2025, Canada introduced temporary Employment Insurance (EI) measures to support workers impacted by U.S. tariffs. These include a pilot project boosting regional unemployment rates by 1% (minimum 7.1%), lowering EI qualification to 630 hours and extending benefits by up to four weeks for three months. For six months, severance rules are suspended for faster EI payments, and the one-week waiting period is waived for all claimants. Enhanced EI Work-Sharing Program flexibilities also help prevent layoffs. These steps, announced by Minister Steven MacKinnon, aim to stabilize the economy and protect Canadian workers amid tariff-related uncertainty.

Ontario New Home Renovation Savings Program