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Program · Federal

EI Special Benefits (self-employed opt-in)

Self-employed Canadians can opt in to Employment Insurance Special Benefits: maternity, parental, sickness, and compassionate care. Regular EI (unemployment) is NOT available to self-employed.

Reviewed by Ben Stevenson, Managing Editor, Canadian Money Help Updated April 21, 2026 Methodology

Eligibility

  • Canadian self-employed person
  • Register with the Canada Employment Insurance Commission
  • Must be registered at least 12 months before claiming benefits
  • Minimum earnings threshold applies in the year before claiming

Limits and rules

  • Premiums same rate as employee EI premiums (1.58% of insurable earnings in 2026)
  • No regular (unemployment) benefits, only maternity, parental, sickness, compassionate care, family caregiver
  • Once registered, premiums are lifelong unless you leave self-employment
  • Benefits structure same as employee (55% up to weekly cap)

Source

Service Canada: EI for self-employed →