What can I do if I disagree with a decision on my EI claim?

Service Canada makes decisions on Employment Insurance (EI) claims.

Ask for a reconsideration

If you do not agree with a decision, the first step is to ask Service Canada for a reconsideration. It's free to do this.

Most decisions about your EI claim can be reconsidered. This can include situations where Service Canada:

refused to give you benefits or you think the amount is too low,
told you to repay some benefits you received,
gave you a penalty, or
gave you a warning letter.

New information

If you have new information or a document that Service Canada did not have when they made their decision, give this to them as soon as possible.

First level of appeal

Starting April 1, 2026, if you're not happy with the decision, your next step is to to the Employment Insurance Board of Appeal (EI BOA). Read more in How do I appeal to the Employment Insurance Board of Appeal?

Second level of appeal

If you're still not happy with the decision at the EI BOA, the next level of appeal is to the Social Security Tribunal – Appeal Division. Read more in How do I appeal to the Social Security Tribunal about my EI claim?

Decisions about insurable hours or earnings

Service Canada cannot reconsider the number of your or earnings.

If you're not happy with the insurable hours or earnings, you can ask the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to decide. This is called a ruling.

You must ask the CRA for a ruling by June 29 in the year after the year your question relates to. For example, if your insurable hours or earnings are from 2025, you can ask for a ruling no later than June 29, 2026.

For more information, read What if I disagree with a decision about my EI insurable hours and earnings?

Get legal help

It's a good idea to contact your local community legal clinic for information and advice. They can talk to you about the strength of your case, options, and possible outcomes.

For more information, read Where can I get help and advice about my rights as a worker?