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It was created to provide general EI information only.
Since January 2022, residents of British Columbia are entitled to an additional 5 paid sick days, paid by their employer, in addition to the 3 unpaid sick days provided by the Employment Standards Act.
Eligibility
The paid sick leave entitlement applies to all employees covered by the Employment Standards Act (ESA), including part-time, temporary or casual employees.
The ESA doesn’t cover certain types of employees, including:
- Federally-regulated sectors
- Self-employed workers or independent contractors
- Employees in professions and occupations excluded from the ESA
Find out if employment standards apply to you.
If you are an employee
You can take up to 5 days of paid leave per year for any personal illness or injury. Your employer may request reasonably sufficient proof of illness.
This entitlement is in addition to the 3 days of unpaid sick leave currently provided by the Employment Standards Act.
You must have worked with your employer for at least 90 days to be eligible for the paid sick days.
If you are an employer
You are required to provide your eligible employees with up to 5 days of paid sick leave per year if they need to stay home because they are sick or injured.
You need to pay your employees their regular wages for these days. They do not have to be taken consecutively.
Employees are also entitled to 3 days of unpaid sick leave.
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.
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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