How to Apply for Employment Insurance (EI) in Alberta

If you live in Alberta and recently lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. EI provides temporary financial assistance while you look for work or upgrade your skills. Here's a complete step-by-step guide on how to apply.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the following basic eligibility requirements:

• You were employed in insurable employment
• You lost your job through no fault of your own
• You have been without work and pay for at least 7 consecutive days in the last 52 weeks
• You have worked the required number of insurable hours in the past 52 weeks or since your last EI claim
• You are actively looking for work and are available to work

For full details, refer to the official EI eligibility page.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

To complete your application, you’ll need:

• Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Records of Employment (ROEs) from all jobs in the past 52 weeks
• Banking information for direct deposit
• Details about your most recent job, including your employer's name, address, and reason for job loss

Step 3: Apply for EI Online

You can apply for EI benefits online through the official government website. The process is secure and available 24/7. Submit your application as soon as you stop working—even if you haven’t received your ROE yet.

Apply here: Employment Insurance Online Application

Step 4: Track Your Application

After applying, you can track the status of your claim through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA). You’ll also receive updates by mail or online if any documents are missing or further steps are required.

Step 5: Submit Your Bi-Weekly Reports

To keep receiving your EI payments, you must submit reports every two weeks confirming that you're still eligible. This is done through the EI Reporting Service.

Need Assistance?

If you need help with your application or have questions, contact the EI Call Centre at 1-800-206-7218 or visit a nearby Service Canada Centre.

---

Disclaimer: This information is based on publicly available government resources and is current as of the time of writing. Always refer to official sources for the most up-to-date details.