Employment Insurance Claims & Appeals - Calgary

Labor and Employment Alberta 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Alberta

Calgary, Alberta residents seeking Employment Insurance (EI) help should begin with Service Canada for claim filing and initial decisions, and the Social Security Tribunal for appeals. This guide explains the processing flow, timelines for reconsideration and appeal, practical action steps, who enforces decisions, and how to contact local and federal offices from Calgary. It focuses on what to expect when you file an EI claim, how to request a reconsideration of a decision, and the route to appeal if a reconsideration does not resolve the issue.

How EI claims are processed

Service Canada receives EI applications, verifies eligibility, calculates weeks and benefits, and issues an initial decision. Processing steps typically include verification of employment history, review of hours or insurable earnings, and checks for separation reasons. Decisions are communicated in writing with reasons and a statement of appeal rights.

  • File: apply online via My Service Canada Account or in person at a Service Canada centre.
  • Timing: initial processing time varies by case and volume; exact wait times are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Evidence: records of employment (ROE), pay stubs, and separation letters are commonly required.
Keep copies of all documents and the dates you contacted Service Canada.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement and penalties for EI fall under federal jurisdiction. Service Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) manage claim processing and investigations; the Social Security Tribunal handles appeals. Where false statements or fraud are alleged, investigative and enforcement actions may follow.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: recovery of overpayments, garnishment, requirement to repay benefits, and referral for prosecution where applicable are used.
  • Enforcer: Service Canada / ESDC for investigations; Social Security Tribunal for legal appeals.
  • Inspections and complaints: complaints and suspected fraud reports are handled by Service Canada investigators; contact information is available through federal offices.
  • Appeals and time limits: common timelines are 30 days to request reconsideration and 30 days to appeal to the Tribunal after a reconsideration decision, unless an official page states otherwise.
If a specific penalty amount is needed, consult the official federal pages listed in Resources.

Applications & Forms

Forms and methods:

  • EI application: apply online via My Service Canada Account or submit required information by phone or in person.
  • Request for reconsideration: must be submitted in writing or through the method described by Service Canada; specific form names or numbers are not always published on a single page.
  • Fees: there are no application fees for EI claims or appeals on the cited federal pages.

Action steps after a decision:

  • Within 30 days of receiving a decision, request a reconsideration with Service Canada if you disagree.
  • If reconsideration upholds the decision, apply to the Social Security Tribunal within the Tribunal time limit (commonly 30 days from the reconsideration decision).
  • Keep records of all submissions and decisions; consider legal advice for complex disputes.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Failure to report income or work while receiving EI — may result in overpayment recovery and administrative actions.
  • Providing false information on an application — may lead to repayment and referral for prosecution.
  • Late or incomplete documentation — can delay benefits and affect eligibility determinations.
If you receive a notice of investigation or overpayment, respond promptly and keep a record of all communications.

FAQ

How do I request a reconsideration of an EI decision?
Request a reconsideration from Service Canada in writing or via the method described by Service Canada within the stated time limit, typically 30 days from the date you receive the decision.
What if the reconsideration decision is the same?
You can appeal to the Social Security Tribunal, usually within 30 days of the reconsideration decision; follow the Tribunal's application process.
Are there fees to appeal?
There are generally no fees to file a reconsideration or appeal with federal EI appeal bodies according to official federal pages.

How-To

  1. Gather documents: collect ROEs, pay stubs, separation letters, and correspondence from Service Canada.
  2. Request reconsideration: submit your request to Service Canada within the applicable time limit, explaining why you disagree and attach evidence.
  3. If reconsideration is denied, apply to the Social Security Tribunal within the Tribunal time limit and follow the Tribunal filing instructions.
  4. Attend hearings or provide requested documents and meet deadlines; consider legal help if needed.

Key Takeaways

  • Act quickly: adhere to 30-day timelines for reconsideration and appeal where applicable.
  • Keep evidence: employment records and correspondence are essential.

Help and Support / Resources

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