EI Benefit Increase 2025: New Amount, Rates & Premiums

Starting January 1, 2025, Employment Insurance (EI) benefits in Canada will see significant updates, including changes to the maximum insurable earnings (MIE), weekly benefit rates, and premiums. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the updates and how they could impact your finances.

What Is the Maximum Insurable Earnings (MIE) for 2025?

The Maximum Insurable Earnings (MIE) is the highest income level on which EI premiums are calculated. For 2025, the MIE has increased:

2025 MIE: $65,700
2024 MIE: $63,200

Impact on Employee Premiums

EI Premium Rate for 2025: $1.64 per $100 of insurable earnings.
Employees will pay EI premiums only on their income up to the MIE of $65,700.
Example:
- If an employee earns $75,000 per year, premiums are calculated only on the first $65,700.
- The maximum annual EI premium will be $1,077.48, up from $1,049.12 in 2024.

What Are the New EI Benefit Rates for 2025?

Starting with claims beginning on or after December 29, 2024, the following EI benefit changes will apply:

Regular and Special Benefits:
- Maximum Weekly EI Benefit: Increased to $695 (up from $668 in 2024).
Extended Parental Benefits:
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: Increased to $417 (up from $401 in 2024).

These changes ensure higher support for eligible claimants during unemployment, sickness, maternity, parental leave, and other qualifying events.

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For Workers in Quebec

Quebec administers its own maternity, parental, and paternity benefits through the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP). As a result:

Premium Rate in Quebec: $1.31 per $100 of insurable earnings (lower than the $1.64 rate in the rest of Canada).
This reduced rate reflects the provincial administration of benefits and ensures tailored support for Quebec residents.

EI Payment Dates for 2025

EI payments are typically issued every two weeks. After submitting your claim and being approved, you can expect payments on the following schedule:

January 10, 2025
January 24, 2025
February 7, 2025
February 21, 2025
The schedule continues bi-weekly throughout the year.

Make sure to report your earnings and other required information on time to avoid payment delays.

How These Changes Affect Canadians

For Employees

Employees with earnings near or above the MIE will see higher premiums deducted, but they will also benefit from increased EI payouts if they need to file a claim.

For Employers

Employers contribute 1.4 times the employee’s EI premiums. The updated MIE will slightly increase payroll costs for businesses.

For Families on Parental Leave

The higher weekly benefit rates provide improved financial support, especially for those on extended parental leave.

The 2025 EI updates reflect the government’s commitment to keeping benefits aligned with inflation and supporting Canadians through various life circumstances. Whether you’re an employee, employer, or someone planning to claim EI, these changes ensure better support and protection.

Stay informed about your rights and benefits, and mark the EI payment dates on your calendar for smooth financial planning.