The ROE is one of the most important documents in an Employment Insurance claim. Employers issue it when an interruption of earnings occurs, and Service Canada uses it to determine whether a person qualifies, how much they may receive and for how long.
What information is on an ROE?
- Employer and employee identification
- First and last day worked
- Final pay-period ending date
- Total insurable hours and earnings
- Pay-period earnings
- Reason for issuing the ROE
- Vacation pay or other amounts paid on separation
Common ROE codes
| Code | General meaning |
|---|---|
| A | Shortage of work, including many end-of-contract or seasonal situations |
| D | Illness or injury |
| E | Quit |
| F | Maternity |
| G | Mandatory retirement |
| M | Dismissal or suspension |
| K | Other |
The code does not by itself approve or deny EI. Service Canada investigates the facts and makes the eligibility decision. An employer should use the code and comments that accurately describe the interruption.
When must an employer issue it?
For many electronic ROEs, the deadline is five calendar days after the end of the pay period in which the interruption occurs. Different timing can apply to monthly or 13-pay-period cycles: generally the earlier of five days after the pay period ends or 15 days after the first day of interruption. Paper ROEs generally have their own five-day timing rule.
How to get your ROE
Electronic ROEs are sent directly to Service Canada and can normally be viewed in My Service Canada Account. If your employer gives you a paper ROE, follow the EI application instructions for submitting it and keep a copy.
What if the ROE is missing?
- Apply for EI right away—do not wait for the document.
- Ask the employer or payroll department when it was submitted.
- Check My Service Canada Account for an electronic ROE.
- Contact Service Canada and provide employer details if it remains missing.
- Keep pay stubs, schedules and messages showing your last day and reason for separation.
A missing or incorrect ROE can delay the decision, but waiting more than four weeks to apply may cost you benefits. Follow our full 2026 EI application guide.
How to correct an error
Contact the employer first and identify the incorrect dates, earnings, hours or reason. Employers can issue an amended ROE. You may also explain the disagreement to Service Canada and provide supporting records. Do not alter a paper ROE yourself.
Related workplace money guides
- How to Apply for EI in Canada 2026
- Ontario Minimum Wage 2026: New Rate, Overtime and Pay Calculator
- Overtime Pay in Ontario: Who Qualifies and How to Calculate It
Official sources
Employers and workers can consult Service Canada’s official Record of Employment guide. Claimants should also review what happens after applying for EI.
This article is general information. Service Canada decides EI eligibility based on the full circumstances.
Employer has not issued the ROE?
Follow our focused step-by-step guide on what to do when an employer has not issued your Record of Employment, including checking My Service Canada Account and applying for EI without waiting.
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