ANSWERS: 1
  • It's difficult to support yourself when you're in between jobs or seeking to advance in your education. In tight times, finding a job---and finding assistance---is even more difficult. In Canada, the Employment Insurance system allows government assistance for those who have been laid off and are looking for work, or who are working toward upgrading their skill set. Pregnant mothers and individuals caring for sick or dying loved ones are also allowed benefits in certain situations. To find out if you qualify for insurance, and how to obtain eligibility, read on.

    Am I Eligible

    There are several factors that weigh into whether you qualify for employment insurance in Canada. Those who lose jobs due to layoffs or cutbacks, or those who are unable to find new employment, are usually eligible for insurance following a one-week period without work. Moreover, two consecutive weeks must have passed since you filed your last claim, and you are required to have worked between 420 and 700 hours in the four month period before you apply for unemployment. These criteria do not apply to individuals who were incarcerated, or to those who were working toward career goals as recommended by an authority from the Human Resources and Social Development Canada.

    Quitting Voluntarily

    Those who quit voluntarily or are fired must meet additional criteria to qualify for benefits, and the benefits are often quite different. If you quit of your own volition, you must prove to HRSDC that you were justified in doing so. Just cause may be determined on the basis of illegal activity by the employer, sexual harassment, and a change in economic situation, among other circumstances. While you will not be allowed "regular" benefits if you were fired for misconduct, you may be allowed some benefits. You may also file a report if you feel you were terminated unjustly, and may end up qualifying for full benefits as a result.

    Pregnancy or Injury

    You may qualify for benefits if you are incapable of performing the requisite duties of a job. The "incapacity for work" benefit must be substantiated by supplying adequate paperwork to establish that you are suffering from illness or injury, or are pregnant. Doctors' notes and medical forms must be submitted along with an application for those who wish to qualify. Qualification for this insurance includes pregnant women, as well as injured individuals, those suffering prolonged illnesses, and individuals who have been quarantined.

    Source:

    Service Canada

    Canada Benefits

    Service Canada

    Resource:

    Service Canada

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