Under the recently passed federal Fairness for the Self-Employed Act, Employment Insurance (EI) special benefits have been extended to the self employed on a voluntary basis.  These special benefits include maternity, parental, sickness and compassionate care benefits.

Self-employed individuals who choose to take advantage of these special EI benefits are required to opt into the program at least one year in advance prior to claiming benefits, and will be responsible for making premium payments for the tax year in which they apply to the program.

The option of joining the program began on January 31, 2010. Moreover, those who register between January 31^st and April 1, 2010 (inclusive) will be able to collect benefits as early as January 1, 2011. Special benefits provided to self-employed individuals will mirror those currently available to salaried employees under the EI program.

Further details on the program, as well as how to register, can be obtained directly from Service Canada.