A&S Needs Analysis & Government Programs question: maximum weekly EI sickness benefit

A&SNeeds Analysis & Government Programs

Leah, 42, is a dental office manager in Moncton earning $1,000 a week in insurable earnings. She has no group disability plan at work. After knee surgery in March 2026 she is off work for 10 weeks, has a medical certificate and has more than 600 insured hours in the past year. What is her maximum weekly EI sickness benefit?

A $450
B $550
C $729
D $1,000

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B. $550

EI sickness benefits pay 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, up to a 2026 maximum of $729 a week. 55% of $1,000 = $550, which is under the cap, so she receives $550. $729 is only the ceiling for higher earners. Source: Service Canada, EI sickness benefits (page dated 2 Jun 2026) and ESDC 2026 EI premium rate and maximum insurable earnings (as at 12 Oct 2026).

Common mistake

Assuming everyone gets the maximum weekly benefit.

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