Canadian EI & Severance Timeline Planner

Calculate when Employment Insurance (EI) starts after receiving severance in Canada. Visual timeline of severance allocation, 1-week waiting period, and maximum weekly benefit.

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How to use Canadian EI & Severance Timeline Planner

  1. 1

    Enter your last day of work (separation date) and your regular weekly earnings.

  2. 2

    Enter total severance amount or severance weeks received from your employer.

  3. 3

    Set your insurable hours accumulated in the last 52 weeks (minimum 420–700 hours required).

  4. 4

    Review the calculated severance allocation period, mandatory 1-week unpaid waiting period, and first EI direct deposit date.

  5. 5

    See the visual chronological runway showing total combined income coverage (severance weeks + EI benefit weeks).

Why use this tool?

Official Service Canada allocation rules

Accurately reflects Section 36 of the Employment Insurance Regulations, allocating severance earnings forward from the date of layoff.

Visual Gantt-style timeline

Clear graphical timeline displaying your severance phase, 1-week waiting period, and subsequent EI benefit window.

Up-to-date maximum weekly benefit caps

Applies current Service Canada maximum insurable earnings thresholds ($668–$695/week max benefit rate).

Frequently asked questions

Does severance pay delay Employment Insurance (EI) in Canada?

Yes. Under Canadian law, severance pay, termination pay, and vacation payouts are considered earnings and are "allocated" from the date of separation at your normal weekly earnings rate. Service Canada will not pay regular EI benefits until your severance allocation period expires.

Should I still apply for EI right away if I received severance?

Yes! Service Canada strongly advises applying for EI within 4 weeks of your last day of work, even if you received a large severance package. If you delay filing your application beyond 4 weeks, you may lose eligibility for EI benefits.

How is the weekly EI benefit calculated in 2025?

For most applicants, the basic rate is 55% of average weekly insurable earnings, capped at a maximum of $695 per week (or $668/week for 2024 claims). Regular benefits are taxable income.

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