EI Premium Rates & Maximums 2026
In 2026, employees pay 1.63% of insurable earnings up to $68,900, for a maximum premium of $1,123.07. Employers pay 1.4x that amount ($1,572.30 max).
2026 EI Rate Details
| Maximum Insurable Earnings | $68,900 |
| Employee Premium Rate | 1.63% |
| Maximum Employee Premium | $1,123.07 |
| Employer Rate Multiplier | 1.4x |
| Employer Premium Rate | 2.282% |
| Maximum Employer Premium | $1,572.30 |
| Maximum Weekly Benefit | $729 |
Employee Max
$1,123.07
Employer Max
$1,572.30
Weekly Benefit Cap
$729
What You'll Actually Pay
| Income | EI Premium | Note |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $652.00 | 1.63% of income |
| $60,000 | $978.00 | 1.63% of income |
| $69,000 | $1,123.07 | Capped at max |
| $100,000 | $1,123.07 | Capped at max |
Once your earnings exceed $68,900, no further EI premiums are deducted.
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How much is EI in 2026?
In 2026, employees pay 1.63% of insurable earnings up to $68,900, for a maximum annual premium of $1,123.07. Employers pay 1.4 times the employee rate (2.282%), with a maximum of $1,572.30.
What is the maximum EI insurable earnings for 2026?
The maximum insurable earnings for 2026 is $68,900. Once your earnings exceed this amount, no further EI premiums are deducted for the rest of the year.
What is the maximum weekly EI benefit for 2026?
The maximum weekly EI benefit for 2026 is $729. Benefits are calculated at 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings, up to this maximum.
Source: CRA — EI premium rates. Last updated January 2026.