EI Sickness Benefits in BC: How to Apply with a Sick Note (2026)

If you're too sick to work for more than a week, EI Sickness Benefits can replace 55% of your income for up to 26 weeks. Here's how to apply in BC.

EI Sickness Benefits in BC: Complete Guide

If you're unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine for more than one week, Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits can provide financial support. Here's everything BC residents need to know about applying.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for EI Sickness Benefits, you must:
1. Be employed (or have been recently employed)
2. Have enough insurable hours: 600 hours in the last 52 weeks
3. Have a medical certificate: From a physician confirming inability to work
4. Experience a 25%+ reduction in earnings: Due to illness
5. Be in Canada: (with some exceptions for medical treatment abroad)

What You Receive

  • Amount: 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings

  • Maximum: $668 per week (2026 rate)

  • Duration: Up to 26 weeks

  • Waiting period: 1 week (no payment for the first week)

  • Tax: Benefits are taxable income


The Medical Certificate Requirement

EI requires a medical certificate that confirms:

  • You are unable to work due to illness or injury

  • The expected duration of your inability to work

  • The date your illness began


Important: The certificate does NOT need to disclose your specific diagnosis to Service Canada.

How to Apply

1. Get your medical certificate (from any licensed physician, including online services)
2. Apply online at Service Canada (My Service Canada Account)
3. Submit your Record of Employment (your employer provides this)
4. Wait for processing (typically 28 days)
5. Complete bi-weekly reports while receiving benefits

Can MedLetter Provide the Medical Certificate?

Yes. MedLetter's CPSBC-registered physicians can provide the medical certificate needed for EI Sickness Benefits. Our notes confirm:

  • Your inability to work

  • Expected duration of absence

  • Date of onset

  • Physician's CPSBC registration number and signature


Common Reasons for EI Sickness Benefits in BC

  • Surgery recovery (1-12 weeks)

  • Serious illness (cancer treatment, etc.)

  • Mental health crisis (severe depression, anxiety, PTSD)

  • Pregnancy complications (before maternity leave begins)

  • Chronic condition flare-ups

  • Post-accident recovery

  • Long COVID symptoms


Tips for BC Applicants

1. Apply immediately: Don't wait until you're feeling better
2. Keep documentation: Save all medical notes and correspondence
3. Report bi-weekly: Missing reports delays payment
4. Combine with other benefits: EI can supplement employer short-term disability
5. Return gradually: You can work part-time while on EI sickness (earnings are partially deducted)
6. Know the transition: If illness leads to job loss, you may transition to regular EI benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a sick note online in British Columbia?
Yes. CPSBC-licensed physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by all BC employers.

How much does an online sick note cost in BC?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. This is often faster and more affordable than visiting a walk-in clinic.

Will my BC employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC recognizes virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.

How many paid sick days do I get in BC?
BC employees are entitled to 5 paid sick days per year after 90 days of employment, plus 3 additional unpaid sick days.