COVID-19: Can layoff workers … work?

The COVID-19 crisis is dramatically increasing the number of claims within companies. In order to offer you the best possible support throughout the crisis, we have undertaken to regularly share with you the answer to questions that are frequently asked. Here are two things you should know as an employer:
1. Can I have EI employees working?
Yes. The employee must report their compensation online via the Government of Canada website.
An employee who receives a salary while receiving EI benefits, can keep 50 cents of his EI benefits for every dollar earned, up to 90% of his weekly earnings prior to his layoff. Beyond this limit, EI benefits will be deducted dollar for dollar.
An employee who works a full week, regardless of the amount earned, is not eligible for EI. However, this does not reduce the total number of weeks payable as part of his application.
For more information, click here.
2. Can I improve my worker’s EI benefits?
Yes, through the Supplementary Unemployment Benefit Program (SUBP).
The Program allows employers to increase the weekly pay of their laid-off employees.
Supplementary Unemployment Benefits are combined with EI benefits. This combination may not exceed 95% of the employee’s regular weekly salary.
For more information, click here.
For any questions, do not hesitate to contact our experts!