How to stop or cancel my EI claim

To stop or cancel an Employment Insurance (EI) claim before the benefits period ends, claimants must understand the processes and implications involved. This guide will help navigate the reasons, steps, and considerations for stopping an EI claim early.

Reasons for Stopping or Cancelling an EI Claim

1. Employment: The most common reason for cancelling an EI claim is re-employment. Claimants who find a job may want to stop receiving EI benefits.
2. Change in Circumstances: Health improvements, relocation, or changes in family responsibilities can also necessitate the cancellation of EI benefits.
3. Errors in Application: If a claim was made based on incorrect information, or if the claimant’s situation was misrepresented, it might be necessary to cancel the claim to avoid penalties.

Steps to Stop or Cancel an EI Claim

1. Notify Service Canada: The first step is to inform Service Canada of your intention to stop the claim. This can be done through your online My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by contacting them via phone or in person at a Service Canada office. You may call EI call centre directly to have a call centre agent to stop your claim manually. This may be the only option for claimants who are exempt from completing their EI report. You may reach their office directly at 1-800-206-7218. For more information on how to reach the EI call centre agent smoothly click here.

2. Update Your Report: If you are reporting bi-weekly, you should indicate in your next report that you have returned to work or wish to cancel your claim. Accurately report the hours worked and any earnings during the period you were still claiming EI, as this will affect your final benefits.

3. Submit Necessary Documentatio*: Depending on your reason for stopping the claim, you may need to provide documentation. For instance, a job offer letter or a medical certificate might be required to substantiate your claim’s cessation.

4. Follow Up: After you’ve notified Service Canada, it’s crucial to follow up to ensure that your request has been processed. Keep records of all communications and monitor your MSCA for updates on the status of your claim.

 Considerations Before Cancelling Your EI Claim

1. Overpayments: If you stop your EI claim because of returning to work and you have already received benefits for the period you were working, you may have to repay these benefits. It’s essential to report any earnings during your reporting period to avoid overpayments.

2. Reactivating Your Claim: If your employment situation changes again (e.g., if the new job does not work out), it is possible to reactivate your EI claim within the same benefit period, provided you have not exhausted your entitled weeks of benefits.

3. Impact on Future Claims: Stopping an EI claim does not typically affect your eligibility for future claims, but the total weeks of benefits available in your benefit period will decrease by the number of weeks you have already claimed.

4. Legal and Financial Advice: In cases involving complex situations, such as misrepresentation or fraud, seeking legal advice might be advisable to understand the legal implications fully.

Cancelling an EI claim is a straightforward process once you decide to return to work or no longer need the benefits. However, ensuring all steps are followed correctly is crucial to avoid financial repercussions like having to repay benefits. Always keep Service Canada informed about any changes in your employment status and ensure that all reports are accurate and submitted on time. This proactive approach will help manage your EI benefits effectively and avoid any issues with overpayments or penalties.

Please keep in mind that once the claim is stopped, you will have to re-apply through the online application again if you planed to go back on your EI claim. Once your claim has been reactivated, you will be paid for the remaining entitlement benefit weeks left on your existing claim before it expires.

More reading: EI Reporting Step by Step

Recommend Read: 4 quick steps to speak to Passport Canada agent