In 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Service Canada have increased the maximum weekly Employment Insurance (EI) benefit to $695, offering a much-needed financial cushion for those who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Whether it’s due to layoffs or company shutdowns, this payment is designed to help Canadians stay financially afloat while they actively search for new employment.
Let’s dive into who can get this benefit, how long it lasts, and what you need to qualify for the $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025.
What is the $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025?
The $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025 is a temporary income support offered to Canadians who are out of work and actively looking for a job. This benefit is calculated as 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings, capped at $695 per week.
This new amount reflects updated Maximum Insurable Earnings in line with inflation and wage growth. The good news? This support can last from 14 to 45 weeks, depending on where you live and how long you were working before applying.
Quick Snapshot – EI Payment 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Program Name | Employment Insurance Regular Benefits |
| Max Weekly Payment | $695 |
| Benefit Rate | 55% of average insurable earnings |
| Waiting Period | 1 week |
| Duration | 14 to 45 weeks |
| Administered By | CRA / Service Canada |
| Taxable | Yes |
| Official Site | canada.ca |
Who is Eligible for the EI Regular Benefit in 2025?
To receive the $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025, you need to meet a few basic but important conditions:
- Job loss must be involuntary – You should’ve lost your job due to reasons like layoffs or company closure, not because you quit or were fired for misconduct.
- Minimum insurable hours – You must have worked a specific number of insurable hours in the past 52 weeks before applying. This varies based on your region’s unemployment rate.
- Actively job hunting – You must be available and actively looking for work.
- Major earnings drop – Your weekly income must have dropped by at least 40%.
- Not working full-time – You should be either completely unemployed or working reduced hours.
For the full list of conditions and updates, it’s best to check Canada.ca.
How Many Weeks Will You Get the EI Payment?
The number of weeks you can receive the $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025 is determined by:
- The total insurable hours worked in the past 52 weeks.
- Regional unemployment rates at the time of your application.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical duration based on unemployment rates in your area:
| Unemployment Rate (%) | Benefit Duration (Weeks) |
|---|---|
| 6% or less | 22 weeks |
| 6.1% – 7% | 21 weeks |
| 7.1% – 8% | 20 weeks |
| 8.1% – 9% | 19 weeks |
| 9.1% – 10% | 18 weeks |
| 10.1% – 11% | 17 weeks |
| 11.1% – 12% | 16 weeks |
| 12.1% – 13% | 15 weeks |
| 13.1% or higher | 14 weeks |
So, the higher your region’s unemployment rate, the fewer weeks you’ll get EI.
Is the $695 Weekly EI Benefit Confirmed?
Yes, the $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025 has been officially confirmed and published by Service Canada. This figure is adjusted yearly based on economic conditions and national wage trends. And yes, just a heads-up—this amount is taxable.
You can trust this figure as it’s part of Canada’s standard EI framework, helping unemployed Canadians with consistent and fair financial support during tough times.
Common Questions Around the EI Payment 2025
Q1: What is the $695 Employment Insurance Payment 2025?
It’s the maximum weekly payment you can get under Canada’s EI Regular Benefit program in 2025. It equals 55% of your average weekly earnings, capped at $695/week.
Q2: How is the EI amount calculated?
It’s based on your average insurable weekly earnings, and you’ll receive 55% of that, up to $695 per week.
Q3: How long can I receive this payment?
Between 14 and 45 weeks, depending on your region’s job market and your work history.
Q4: Who can qualify?
Anyone who lost their job involuntarily, is actively looking for work, and meets the insurable hours criteria.
Q5: Where can I verify this information or get help?
You can check all official details on the Canada.ca portal or reach out to CRA or Service Canada for direct assistance.
Final Thoughts
The $695 Weekly CRA EI Payment 2025 is a significant financial relief program for many Canadians facing job uncertainty. Whether you’ve recently been laid off or your workplace has closed down, this benefit ensures you still have support while you look for your next opportunity.
Always make sure you meet the eligibility criteria, keep your job search active, and don’t forget—there’s a 1-week waiting period before your payments begin. For more updates or to apply, head over to the official Canada.ca site.
Stay informed, stay hopeful, and good luck in your job search!