As an employee in Canada, it’s important to understand what a Record of Employment (ROE) is and how it affects your eligibility for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. In this blog, we’ll explain what a ROE is, why it’s important, and answer some common questions about ROEs.
What is a Record of Employment (ROE)?
A ROE is a form that employers complete for employees who have experienced an interruption of earnings. This includes situations such as termination, resignation, or a leave of absence.
The ROE provides important information about your employment history, including your insurable earnings, the reason for the interruption of earnings, and the number of insurable hours you’ve worked. This information is used by the government to determine your eligibility for EI benefits.
Why is a Record of Employment (ROE) Important?
A ROE is important for several reasons:
- EI eligibility: The information on the ROE is used to determine your eligibility for EI benefits. If you don’t have a ROE, it can delay or even prevent you from receiving benefits.
- Income tax purposes: The information on the ROE is used by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to verify your income and ensure that you’re paying the correct amount of income tax.
- Proof of employment: The ROE serves as proof of your employment history, which may be required when applying for loans, mortgages, or other financial products.
Common Questions About Record of Employment (ROE)
- When should I expect to receive a ROE?
Your employer is required to issue a ROE within five calendar days of the end of the pay period in which your interruption of earnings occurred.
- Can I request a ROE from a previous employer?
Yes, you can request a ROE from a previous employer if you need it for EI or other purposes. Your previous employer is required to issue a ROE within five calendar days of your request.
- What happens if my employer doesn’t issue a ROE?
If your employer doesn’t issue a ROE, you should contact them to request one. If they still don’t issue one, you can contact Service Canada for assistance.
- Can I dispute the information on my ROE?
Yes, if you believe that the information on your ROE is incorrect, you can request that your employer correct it. If your employer refuses to correct it, you can contact Service Canada to dispute it.
Conclusion
Record of Employment (ROE) is an important document that provides information about your employment history and eligibility for EI benefits. As an employee, it’s important to understand what a ROE is and to ensure that you receive one from your employer when needed. If you have any questions about your ROE or EI eligibility, contact Service Canada for assistance.
