Self-employed EI opt-in calculator

Estimate what opting into EI as a self-employed person would cost each year, when you could first claim, and how much special benefits could pay (maternity, parental, sickness). Use 2026 rates.

• You can opt in for special benefits only. Regular benefits (for job loss) are not available to self-employed people.
• Once you make a claim, you keep paying premiums for life.
• Quebec residents are covered by QPIP, not EI, so this tool does not calculate for them.

Enter your net income, then press Estimate.

Estimates only. Check the rules and rates on Canada.ca: self-employed EI premiums and the 2026 EI premium rate announcement before you decide. This is general information, not tax or insurance advice.