The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that it will resume $650 per week Employment Insurance (EI) payments in July 2025, offering substantial relief to unemployed and underemployed Canadians. This development comes as many individuals continue to face financial hardships, unstable job conditions, or temporary layoffs. For eligible recipients, these payments can offer vital support during their search for stable employment.
Why This Announcement Matters
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to linger across the Canadian job market. While recovery is underway, many citizens still deal with job uncertainty. The $650 weekly EI payment announced by CRA aims to bridge that gap, offering short-term financial assistance to those who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own or are unable to work temporarily.
What Is Employment Insurance (EI)?
Employment Insurance (EI) is a government-backed program that provides temporary income support to people who have lost their jobs involuntarily. It helps recipients manage expenses until they find new employment. The payments are made weekly and directly deposited into recipients’ bank accounts.
Key Highlights of EI Payments in July 2025
- Weekly Payment Amount: $650
- Payment Schedule: Every week in July 2025
- Mode of Transfer: Direct deposit to bank accounts
- Announcement Status: Officially confirmed by CRA
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To receive the $650 weekly EI benefit, applicants must fulfill specific requirements set by the CRA:
- Must have lost employment through no fault of their own
- Should have worked between 420 and 700 insurable hours in the past 52 weeks
- Must be actively seeking employment and able to work
- Should not be receiving overlapping government benefits or pensions
- Must fall under the minimum income threshold defined by CRA
These conditions are designed to ensure the benefit reaches those who genuinely need financial assistance due to employment disruptions.
Online Application
- Visit the official CRA website: canada.ca
- Navigate to the “Employment Insurance” section and click “Apply Now”
- Provide your SIN (Social Insurance Number) and personal details
- Enter employment history, including past employers and termination dates
- Submit the application and await email confirmation
Offline Application
If you lack internet access, visit your nearest Service Canada office to apply manually. Staff will guide you through the documentation and submission process.
When Will You Get Paid?
The CRA has outlined the EI payment schedule for July 2025 as follows:
- First Payment: July 5, 2025
- Second Payment: July 12, 2025
- Third Payment: July 19, 2025
- Final Payment: July 26, 2025
Payments will be processed automatically and credited weekly, provided the applicant remains eligible and submits required biweekly updates.
Understanding the Recertification Requirement
To continue receiving the benefit, recipients must report to CRA every two weeks, confirming that:
- They are still unemployed
- They are actively searching for work
This process, called biweekly reporting, can be done online or via telephone. Failure to report may result in payment suspension.
Can You Receive EI Alongside Other Government Benefits?
Yes, in many cases you can. Benefits like the Canada Workers Benefit, GST/HST credit, or housing assistance can be received simultaneously, provided they do not violate EI rules. Applicants must disclose all existing benefits and supports during the application process to avoid disqualification.
Who Will Benefit Most from the $650 Weekly Payment?
The program is expected to benefit a wide range of Canadians, including:
- Temporarily laid-off workers
- Individuals unemployed due to business shutdowns
- Seasonal employees between contracts
- Workers returning from maternity/paternity leave
- People seeking jobs after their contract jobs have ended
For these groups, the benefit offers a lifeline while they navigate job uncertainty or transition back into the workforce.
FAQs
Q1. What is the $650 weekly EI payment confirmed by CRA for July 2025?
A. It’s a temporary Employment Insurance benefit offering $650 per week to eligible individuals throughout July 2025, confirmed by the CRA.
Q2. Who qualifies for the $650 EI payment?
A. Canadians who are unemployed without fault, have worked 420–700 insurable hours, and are actively seeking employment.
Q3. How many hours do I need to qualify?
A. Between 420 to 700 hours in the past 12 months, depending on the regional unemployment rate.
Q4. When will the first EI payment arrive?
A. The first weekly payment is scheduled for Friday, July 5, 2025, followed by weekly deposits (July 12, 19, and 26).
Q5. Can I receive EI and GST/HST credit at the same time?
A. Yes, as long as all eligibility conditions for both programs are met and there is no overlap in disqualifying benefits.
