EI and Severance Packages: Can You Collect EI If You Get Severance?

This is one of the most common questions we hear:
“If I take severance, can I still get EI?”

Often, yes but timing matters.

Severance can affect when EI starts because certain payments can be treated as “earnings” for EI purposes and allocated over time.

In plain English: you may be eligible for EI, but your EI benefits may not begin immediately after termination depending on how your severance is paid and categorized.

The structure of a package (lump sum vs. salary continuance) can change:
• when EI begins
• what you must report
• how allocations are applied

• Don’t assume EI will start the week after termination.
• Keep your severance documents clear and consistent.
• If EI timing is important, discuss the structure before you sign.

McMackin Law regularly negotiates severance terms with the real world in mind including benefit continuity and EI timing issues that matter to families.