Page 37 - A Canuck's Guide to Financial Literacy 2020
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               Sickness Benefits


               They say that health is wealth and that’s true to a certain extent. Our health allows us to go
               to work and earn a paycheck to pay our bills. However, you never know when illness could
               strike. Employment Insurance allows Canadians to sign up for sickness benefits which
               provides temporary income for a period of up to 15 weeks, in addition to what your
               employer might provide. Be aware of any plans provided by your employer that allows you
               to take paid short term sick leave or short term disability benefits.


               Qualifying

               To qualify for sickness benefits, you must provide proof that you’re diagnosed with a
               medical condition that keeps you from work. Your doctor or practitioner may provide you
               with such proof. A formal application must be submitted and vetted. In addition –

                  ▪  You’re unable to work due to a medical condition.
                  ▪  Your average weekly earnings have dropped by more than 40%.
                  ▪  You have accumulated more than 600 insurable hours of work during the last 52
                     weeks.

               Be aware that if you were receiving any income from EI in the last 12 months, the amount of
               weeks that you can qualify for sickness benefits might be limited.


               Amount of Benefits

               Employment Insurance will provide you up to 15 weeks of sickness benefits. The amount
               varies but it’s usually 55% of your average weekly insurable earnings. There is no fixed
               amount and each person’s application is different.


               For 2020, this is capped to a maximum of $573 per week.

               If your family net income is less than $25,951, you may qualify for an enhanced benefit
               during the application process.

               Applying for the Benefits


               It’s recommended that you apply as soon as possible in order to start receiving benefits.
               You start your application online. Before you apply, make sure that you have the following:

                  ▪  Social Insurance Number
                  ▪  Government Issued ID or Passport
                  ▪  Direct Deposit Information or Void Cheque

                  ▪  Your Employment Information
                  ▪  Dismissal of employment letter if applicable
                  ▪  Record of Employment for the last 52 weeks
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