Employment insurance is something that we all pay into while we are working and hope to never need. But there are so many different circumstances that might cause a person to apply for this service. You could have been the victim of downsizing at a debander plant or could be between jobs because you had to move to a new location. There are also employment benefits for those that are unable to work due to illness or having a child. You can apply for EI if you have paid into an EI account, have been without work for a least one week consecutively, have worked enough hours in the last year, are attempting to find work, and lost your last position through no fault of your own. Here are some tips for applying and some more information about the program.

Employment Insurance is meant to offer a temporary financial solution for Canadians in need. Regular benefits are meant for people who are capable and willing to work but due to certain circumstances cannot find employment at a ballast lead production plant or in a store, for example. You are not eligible to apply if you left your last job without just cause, were fired for misconduct, or are part of a strike or lockout.

You should start the application process for EI as soon as you know you will need it. Even if you are still doing seasonal work for ice hockey camps but know that your employment will terminate at the end of the month you should start your application. If you were to wait to able you might actually lose your eligibility. There are several different methods you can use to file your application. If you would like to fill out all of the necessary paperwork in the comfort of your own home than you can do so online through the Service Canada website. If your last job working for an Ontario lawyer didn't give you much computer knowledge than you can apply in person at your nearest Service Canada Centre.

Sometimes you will need to apply for EI several times throughout your lifetime. If you have received benefits in the last year than you might not need to start the application process all over again. Maybe you were able to find summer employment in a pet vet London Ontario office but then found yourself looking for a job again in the fall. But, you should make sure that it's not to your advantage to start the process over again. You can speak with a Service Canada representative to discuss your best course of action.

When you're applying for EI there are several documents that you will need to complete your application. Before heading out to a Service Canada Centre you should visit the website to make sure that you're not missing anything.