Please be advised that this site is not affiliated with the Service Canada office.
It was created to provide general EI information only.

How long will my EI claim be under review?
(latest 2024 update)

Follow-up the status of your EI claim (a.k.a Callback)

A callback request is sent by a call centre agent when EI claimant tries to follow up on the status of their delayed EI claim. You must allow up to 5 business days after the date your request was initiated, for someone from the processing office to contact you back for an update. If it’s your second time following up after the 5 days timeframe, the wait time will shorten to 2 business days and down to 1 business day on the third try.

If you are suffering financial hardship and have your claim processed under Dire Need, your call back timeframe is 1 business day after the date your request was initiated.

NOTE: There is currently a processing backlog due to holiday layoff. We have noticed that call centre agents may not send a call back message to EI processing office for EI claimant and ask caller to wait extra days.

How long will my EI claim be under review?

First-time initial application:

You must wait for up to 28 calendar days from the date of application for a decision (assuming your ROE was submitted within the first week of your online application)

Note: Generally, if your claim is not complicated and your ROE was issued electronically, you should see your claim finalized before 28 days. If your claim requires further details from either your former employer(s) or claimant, it will very likely get delayed.

 

Renewal application:

You must wait for up to 28 calendar days from the date of application for a decision (assuming your additional ROE was submitted within the first week of your online application)

 

Waiting for a decision to be made:

You must wait for up to 21 calendar days from the date of your request was made for a decision.

 

General Inquiry

Please allow up to 2 business days + mailing time, to receive your answer.

 

Member of Parliament enquiries

If your request was sent through ministerial enquiries, you will receive your answer in approximately 1 business day.

 

Why is my claim delayed?

Please visit our post, Common Reason of a processing delay to find out what are the common reasons your claim processing time is delayed.

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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.

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