Is EI the same as EIA?
Many people confuse the two terms but the answer is no. EI, which stands for Employment Insurance is different from EIA. EIA stands for Employment and Income Assistance. While both programs provide financial help and assistance, they are designed differently and meet different needs and circumstances. While EI provides temporary income to workers who need to be on leave, are temporarily out of work or are upgrading their skills, EIA provides support to low-income individuals and families to help them meet basic needs.
You can receive EI if you lose your job and it's not your fault. For example, there is a shortage of work, a seasonal or mass lay-off or you can't find a job. For other eligibility requirements, go to EI Regular Benefits – Eligibility. It is important to note that EI is not a paid vacation. It is a benefit from insurance you paid for together with your employer that allows you to have income in the duration that you can't work or don't have work. Also, you must have a worked a minimum required hours before you can be eligible for EI.
For most people, the basic rate is 55% of their average earnings up to a maximum amount. As of January, 2018, the maximum yearly insurable earnings amount is $51,700. This translates to a maximum of $547 per week. The number of weeks of payments you will receive, meanwhile, depends on how long you worked and the unemployment rate in your region when you filed your claim.
Can you apply for EIA if you lose your job?
Yes, but you must have a just cause for leaving or refusing a job. When you apply, the Intake officer will assess your reasons. They will talk to you and possibly your employer to make a final decision on your benefits. Read Reasons for Leaving or Refusing a Job to see examples of just cause for not working.
All Manitobans can apply for EIA. Applicants must read the EIA Pre-Intake Orientation Presentation to know what it covers and the requirements they need to bring to an Intake Appointment. You can also download this Checklist to make sure you have all the documents needed. Your eligibility will be assessed at the Intake Appointment. They will conduct a Test of Need which adds up your income assets and compares it to the total of your costs and expenses for basic needs. The amount of EIA an applicant receives is the difference between the needs that EIA will fund and their resources.
Can I receive both EIA and EI when I lose my job?
If you receive social assistance (EIA or any other financial assistance or advances from a Social Services agency) while waiting for your EI benefits to start, you may have to reimburse that money to a Social Services agency out of your EI benefits. (Read EI and Social Assistance for more details).
Do you need financial aid or help in applying for social services? Consult your nearest Immigrant Serving Organization or NISW.