Every Canadian jurisdiction is responsible for deducting Employment Insurance (EI) contributions from eligible employees and remitting these amounts to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This process is intended to ensure that employees can access benefits in times of need, such as during unemployment or maternity leave. The federal government establishes the contribution rates and the maximum amounts that can be deducted for all Canadian jurisdictions, with the exception of Quebec.

Quebec operates under its own EI system, which is administered by the province. As a result, Quebec has distinct rates and contribution limits that differ from those set by the federal government. Employers in Quebec are required to deduct these province-specific rates from their employees' earnings and remit the contributions directly to the CRA, ensuring compliance with both provincial and federal regulations.

This dual system allows Quebec to tailor its EI program to better meet the needs of its residents while still contributing to the national framework. Understanding these differences is crucial for employers and employees alike to ensure accurate deductions and compliance with the respective regulations.

Click here for more information on Employment Insurance in Quebec.