Wildfires in Canada have forced thousands of people to leave their homes, jobs, and communities. If you have lost work or income because of these disasters, the Employment Insurance (EI) program offers support to help you manage during this difficult time. This guide explains who is eligible, how to apply, the payment amounts, and when to expect your benefits.
What Are EI Benefits for Canadians Affected by Wildfires?
Employment Insurance (EI) provides temporary income support to workers who lose their job through no fault of their own. During wildfires and other natural disasters, EI becomes a lifeline for Canadians who are unable to work. These benefits can help cover basic expenses while you recover or wait for your workplace to reopen.
Eligibility for EI During Wildfires
To qualify for EI if you are affected by wildfires, you must meet the following conditions:
- Loss of work: Your workplace closed, you were laid off, or you cannot work because of the wildfires.
- Insurable hours: You worked enough insurable hours in the past 52 weeks (the number varies by region, usually between 420 and 700 hours).
- No fault of your own: You did not quit voluntarily; your job loss must be directly linked to the wildfire situation.
- Availability for work: You must be ready and able to work if a suitable job becomes available, even if your community is still under evacuation.
In addition, self-employed Canadians and those who lost income due to business interruptions may also qualify under EI special benefits or through other CRA and provincial supports.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →How to Apply for EI Benefits After a Wildfire
Applying for EI after a wildfire is similar to the standard process, but the government often fast-tracks claims from disaster-affected areas. Here are the steps:
- Apply online: Go to the official EI application page on Canada.ca and complete the online form. You should apply as soon as possible, even if your employer has not yet issued your Record of Employment (ROE).
- Submit your ROE: Your employer usually sends this electronically to Service Canada. If it is delayed because of the fires, you can still apply.
- Provide proof of address: If you were evacuated, update your mailing address to ensure you receive notices and payments.
- Check your My Service Canada Account (MSCA): You can monitor the progress of your application, confirm payment dates, and submit reports online.
If you cannot apply online, you can contact Service Canada directly at 1-800-206-7218 for help.
EI Benefit Amounts for Canadians Affected by Wildfires
The amount you receive under EI is based on your insurable earnings:
- The basic rate is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings.
- The maximum benefit in 2026 is $668 per week.
- Some workers in heavily impacted regions may qualify for extended weeks of support if recovery takes longer.
If you are eligible for EI sickness, caregiving, or other special benefits linked to wildfire disruptions, the payment rate is calculated the same way.
EI Payment Dates
Once approved, you will typically receive your first EI payment within 28 days of applying. Payments are issued every two weeks, either by:
- Direct deposit to your bank account (fastest and most reliable option).
- Cheque by mail, if you do not have direct deposit set up.
For evacuees and displaced families, direct deposit is strongly recommended to avoid interruptions caused by relocation.
Other Support for Canadians Affected by Wildfires
Alongside EI, the government and partners like the Canadian Red Cross offer additional support:
- Emergency financial assistance for evacuees.
- Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) for provinces and territories.
- Tax relief from the CRA including deadline extensions and continued benefit payments.
EI is one part of a larger network of financial supports to help Canadians get back on their feet after disasters
If you need help with your EI claim or have questions about wildfire-related supports:
- Service Canada EI line: 1-800-206-7218
- TTY (for hearing impaired): 1-800-529-3742
- Online
