Is it possible for me to claim EI (employment insurance) while I go to school this winter?

I live in Canada and will be a full time student without time for a full time job does anyone know if they will let me live off EI? or do I have to build houses for class and then work on the weekend?

Answer #1

No - you have to be available to work to claim EI.

Answer #2

would it help my case if I have been working full time for a year to save money for school?

Answer #3

Nope … you can’t claim EI while in school because you have to be available to get a job. EI is only meant to help you with living expenses when you’re between jobs - it’s not social assistance. Why don’t you just look into student loans?

Answer #4

I’m trying to avoid that sort of thing. I’ve seen people go really deep into debt because of post secondary education. Having grown up in a low income family I want to provide an easier life for my self and future family

Answer #5

Student debt can be manageable if you’re smart with it.

Answer #6

In the US, if you can get fired through no fault of your own the week before your classes start it would work for you. Or if your employment contract ran out. Just remember your prior employer is paying part of your unemployment benefit and the state pays the rest. If you were to be shady and illegal you could work out a deal with your employer to fire you and you reemburse them for what they pay for your benefit to the state. It could work but if you are caught, you will have to repay everything that you received plus fines and possibly jail time, maybe community service. :)

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