Canada lets self-employed people opt in to some Employment Insurance benefits, but watch out for age limits on youth programs. Every source below was re-checked on the official page on 4 November 2026. Rules change, so check again before you act.
Benefits#
- EI special benefits for the self-employed:
- You opt in with an agreement through My Service Canada Account, and it must be active for at least 12 months before you can claim.
- You also need minimum self-employed earnings ($9,254 net for 2025).
Financing#
- BDC. Note: Futurpreneur is for ages 18–39 only.
Still to research#
Provincial health coverage, CPP for the self-employed, and mortgage income proof.