As unemployment challenges persist in 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) continues to provide essential support through its Employment Insurance (EI) program. In July 2025, eligible Canadians can receive up to $695 per week to help cover living expenses while they search for new employment or recover from temporary job loss.
Whether you’ve recently been laid off, are dealing with reduced work hours, or facing a temporary break in employment, this guide explains how the EI program works, who qualifies, and how to maximize your benefits during this critical period.
What Is Employment Insurance (EI)?
Employment Insurance is a government-run income support program that provides temporary financial assistance to Canadians who are unemployed but available and willing to work. It also supports individuals unable to work due to:
- Illness or injury
- Maternity or parental leave
- Caregiving responsibilities
In 2025, EI covers 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week, helping individuals and families bridge financial gaps.
EI Overview at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | $695/week |
| Benefit Rate | 55% of average weekly insurable earnings |
| Max Insurable Earnings | $65,700/year |
| Hours Required | 420 to 700 hours (based on regional rates) |
| Waiting Period | Waived (March 30 – October 11, 2025) |
| Application | Online via Canada.ca/EI |
| Payment Frequency | Weekly after claim approval |
Who Is Eligible for EI in July 2025?
To receive the $695 weekly EI benefit, you must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- Job loss through no fault of your own, such as layoffs, company closures, or seasonal shutdowns
- Worked between 420–700 insurable hours in the last 52 weeks or since your last claim
- Actively seeking employment and available to work
- Not self-employed, unless enrolled in EI special benefits
How Is the $695 Weekly Amount Calculated?
The amount you receive depends on your average weekly insurable earnings. The standard formula is:
Weekly EI = 55% × Average Weekly Insurable Earnings
Example Calculation:
If you earned $1,200/week, your EI would be:
55% × $1,200 = $660/week
To receive the maximum $695, your weekly earnings must be $1,263.46 or more before job loss.
Extra Support: Family Supplement for Low-Income Households
If your annual family income is under $25,921 and you receive the Canada Child Benefit, you may qualify for the Family Supplement.
This can increase your weekly benefit up to 80% of your average earnings, but your total weekly amount is still capped at $695.
What’s New in July 2025? – Key Rule Changes
To help Canadians during economic uncertainty, the government has introduced temporary measures from March 30 to October 11, 2025:
- No Waiting Week: Payments begin immediately after your application is approved.
- No Deduction for Severance or Vacation Pay: These payments won’t delay your benefits.
- Lower Entry Threshold: A 1% increase in your region’s unemployment rate is applied (minimum 7.1%), making more people eligible for EI.
These changes are designed to streamline access to support for those who need it most.
How to Apply for EI Benefits
To apply for EI, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Required Documents:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Record of Employment (ROE) from each employer in the past year
- Banking information for direct deposit
- Work history and contact details
Application Process:
- Apply online at Canada.ca/EI as soon as your job ends
- Do not wait more than 4 weeks from your last day of work—delaying can cause you to lose benefits
- Set up direct deposit for faster payments
Biweekly Reporting: Why It’s Essential
To keep receiving your payments, you must submit a biweekly report. This confirms:
- If you were available for work
- If you were actively seeking a job
- If you did any part-time or freelance work
Missing a report will pause your payments, so set reminders and submit reports on time via your My Service Canada Account.
Tips to Maximize Your EI Benefits
Follow these best practices to get the most out of your EI entitlement:
- Apply early, even if you’re unsure whether you qualify
- Use the EI Benefits Estimator on Canada.ca to check your potential amount
- Gather your ROEs promptly from all past employers
- Monitor your email and My Service Canada Account regularly for updates or requests
EI Isn’t Just for Job Loss: Additional Programs
Employment Insurance also includes benefits for other life events, with separate application streams:
- EI Sickness – For those unable to work due to illness or injury
- EI Maternity/Parental – For expecting parents or new caregivers
- EI Caregiving – For those caring for a critically ill or injured family member
Each program has unique requirements, but the base application process is similar.
Final Word: A Financial Safety Net for 2025
In uncertain times, the $695/week Employment Insurance benefit offers essential financial stability for Canadians facing job loss or reduced hours. This program is more than just a cheque—it’s a bridge to recovery and re-entry into the workforce.
By understanding how EI works, applying on time, and staying up to date with your reporting and documents, you can ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the Canada $695 Weekly EI benefit in July 2025?
It’s a temporary financial support program that provides up to $695/week to unemployed Canadians.
Q2. Who qualifies for EI this July?
You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, have worked 420–700 insurable hours, and be actively job hunting.
Q3. How is the payment calculated?
It’s 55% of your weekly insurable earnings, up to a maximum of $695.
Q4. What documents are needed?
You’ll need your SIN, ROEs from all employers, banking info, and work history.
Q5. Is there a waiting period in July 2025?
No. The one-week waiting period is waived from March 30 to October 11, 2025.