The Government of Canada has announced that, effective December 18, 2022, Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits will increase from 15 weeks to 26 weeks.
Eligible employees who are unable to work because of illness, injury, or quarantine who file a claim on or after December 18, 2022 will be eligible for EI sickness benefits up to a maximum of 26 weeks.
What’s that mean for employers?
In light of the extension, employers are advised to review and consider the impact of this change on their sick leave policies, short-term disability and long-term disability plans as well as collective agreements.
For our Federally regulated clients only: To align with the change to EI sickness benefits, the maximum length of unpaid medical leave available to federally regulated private-sector employees will increase from 17 to 27 weeks under the Canada Labour Code. This change will come into effect on December 18, 2022 and will ensure that employees have the right to take unpaid job-protected leave while receiving the extended EI sickness benefits.
As always, if you have any questions regarding a specific situation, please do not hesitate to reach out to speak with an e2r™ Advisor.