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Employment Insurance Premium Rates for 2026
The Government of Canada has announced the Employment Insurance (EI) premium rates for 2026, providing continued support to workers and employers while keeping contributions near historically low levels.
EI Premium Rate for Employees
For 2026, the EI premium rate for employees is set at $1.63 per $100 of insurable earnings. This represents a one-cent decrease compared to the 2025 rate and remains well below the historical peak.
EI Premium Rate for Employers
Employers are required to contribute EI premiums at a rate of 1.4 times the employee rate. For 2026, this results in an employer rate of $2.28 per $100 of insurable earnings for each employee.
Quebec EI Premium Rates
Employees and employers in Quebec pay lower EI premiums because the province administers its own parental insurance program. For 2026:
- Quebec employee rate: $1.30 per $100 of insurable earnings
- Quebec employer rate: $1.82 per $100 of insurable earnings
Maximum Insurable Earnings and Premiums
The Maximum Insurable Earnings (MIE) for 2026 will increase to $68,900. Based on this amount:
- Maximum annual EI premium for employees: $1,123.07
- Maximum annual EI premium for employers: $1,572.30 per employee
EI Weekly Benefits for 2026
The increase in MIE also raises the maximum weekly EI benefit to $729 for 2026, providing additional income support for eligible workers.
How EI Premium Rates Are Set
EI premium rates are determined using a seven-year forecast designed to balance the EI Operating Account. The EI Senior Actuary uses economic projections such as unemployment levels and wage growth to calculate the required rate.
Key Takeaways
- EI premium rates decrease slightly in 2026
- Maximum insurable earnings increase significantly
- Workers and employers should plan for higher maximum contributions
More Read: How to tell EI agent about your Financial Dire Need situation?
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If you want to stay on top of every federal benefit payment date in 2026, we’ve put together a clear and easy-to-follow guide to help you plan ahead with confidence. Explore the full schedule and make sure you never miss a payment by checking out the 2026 Federal Government Benefit Payment Calendar.
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