EI provides regular benefits to individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own (examples, due to shortage of work, seasonal lay-offs or mass lay-offs) and are available for and able to work, but can’t find a job. Individuals may also be eligible for EI for other reasons (example, sick leave). You will need between 420 and 700 hours of insurable employment based on the unemployment rate in your area during the qualifying period to qualify for regular benefits.