Work-Sharing Program (EI)
Employment and Social Development Canada / Service Canada
Income support (EI benefits) to employees on a temporarily reduced work week; agreements last a minimum of 4 weeks and up to 26 weeks, with an extension of up to 12 weeks for a maximum total of 38 weeks. Special measures are extended to March 31, 2028.
Employment Insurance support that lets employers avoid layoffs during a temporary drop in business by reducing hours while employees receive EI income support for the lost time.
Open the official page ↗How to apply
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Who qualifies
Employers operating in Canada for at least 1 year with at least 2 EI-eligible employees who agree to reduced hours and to share available work. Participating employees must experience a minimum 10% reduction in normal weekly earnings. Business slowdown must be temporary and outside the employer's control.
Good to know
- Funding: No employer dollar amount; benefits are paid to workers.
Evidence from the official page
- status“the workforce retention and retraining program - work-sharing agreement provides retention supports to employers and income support to employees eligible for employment insurance (ei) benefits” source ↗
- amount“if needed, an extension may be requested of up to 12 weeks bringing the initial agreement to a maximum total of 38 weeks” source ↗
- amount“special measures are extended to march 31, 2028 , with expanded eligibility and program flexibilities.” source ↗
Verified 2026-10-18 · High confidence. Always confirm on the official page before applying.