If you work or employ people in Canada, you have probably heard about the Record of Employment – often called the ROE. It is one of the most important documents when it comes to jobs and benefits in the country.
Whether you are switching jobs, being laid off, or simply taking time off, the record of employment Canada process plays a big role in what happens next.
A lot of people wonder, “how do I find my record of employment?” or they are unsure about why it even matters.
In this blog, we’ll explain everything in simple words so you can understand how the Canadian record of employment works, why it matters, and what you need to look out for.
Table of Contents
What is a Record of Employment?
A record of employment is an official document that an employer must issue whenever someone experiences an interruption in earnings. This could be because the employee is leaving the job, taking maternity leave, getting laid off, or experiencing a reduction in hours. The record of employment Canada system ensures employees can access benefits through Employment Insurance (EI).
The document includes important details like when you worked, how much you earned, and why you stopped working. It is used by the Canadian government to decide if you are eligible for EI benefits.
Why Does It Matter?
This one document affects your ability to get help when you need it most – like during layoffs or medical leave. Without a proper Canadian record of employment, your Employment Insurance (EI) benefits could be delayed or denied.
For employers, getting the ROE wrong or submitting it late can result in penalties and problems for both the company and the employee. So it is not just a formality, it is an important part of Canada’s job and benefit system.
What Are Record of Employment Codes?
One thing that can confuse people is the record of employment codes. These are short codes listed on the ROE that explain why the employee’s earnings stopped. For example, “A” means shortage of work, “D” means illness or injury, and “E” means quit.
These codes help Service Canada understand why you are not working anymore, and whether you qualify for EI. Misunderstanding or misusing the codes can lead to problems, so it is good to know what they mean.
Here’s a table including the common ROE codes:
| Code | Reason | What It Means |
| A | Shortage of work | Business is slow or shutting down |
| D | Illness or injury | The employee is sick or hurt |
| E | Quit | The employee chose to leave the job |
| M | Maternity/parental leave | Time off to care for a new child |
| N | Leave of absence | Taking a break or unpaid leave |
How Do I Find My Record of Employment?
If your employer submits ROEs electronically, you can find them online through your My Service Canada Account. You’ll need to log in and go to the “Employment Insurance” section to check it.
If your employer provides a physical copy of the ROE, it should be delivered to you directly or sent by mail within a few days of your final working day.
How the ROE Helps with EI
When you apply for EI, the government needs to see your record of employment to confirm your work history and the reason for your earnings ending. It is what tells them you are eligible. Without it, your EI claim might be delayed or denied.
This is why employers are legally required to send the ROE within a few days of the last day of work. The quicker it is sent, the quicker employees can get the help they need.
Tip: Always double-check your ROE for errors before submitting it with your EI claim. Wrong dates, missing hours, or incorrect codes can delay your benefits.
Source: Government of Canada
Who Needs to Submit the ROE?
Only employers can submit a record of employment Canada – not employees. If you are an employer, you must complete an ROE every time an employee has an interruption in earnings, even if they plan to come back.
You can submit the ROE either on paper or electronically. Submitting it online is faster and more secure.
Fact:
Canadian employers are legally required to issue an ROE whenever an employee experiences an interruption of earnings, even if the employee does not intend to apply for EI benefits.
Source: Link
Why the ROE is Useful for Employees Too
Many people think the ROE is just for employers, but it is just as important for employees. When you leave a job or go on leave, your ROE is your proof that you worked there and how much you earned.
If something doesn’t match your own records, like wrong work dates or incorrect record of employment codes, you have the right to ask for corrections. Keep a copy for your own files.
In Essence
Understanding how the record of employment Canada system works can save time, avoid stress, and make sure you or your employees get the support they deserve. Whether you are asking how do I find my record of employment or trying to figure out the record of employment codes, the key is knowing your rights and keeping good records.
Choosing to handle ROEs properly builds trust in the workplace and helps everyone move ahead with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is an ROE important for employees and employers?
An ROE is important because it helps employees apply for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits when they stop working. For employers, it is a legal requirement and ensures proper record-keeping. It shows details like why the employee left, how long they worked, and how much they earned. This protects both sides during employment changes or interruptions.
What is a Record of Employment (ROE) in Canada?
A record of employment Canada is a document employers must fill when someone stops earning money at work. It includes job dates, wages, and why the person stopped working.
How do employees use an ROE to apply for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits?
Employees submit the record of employment to Service Canada when applying for EI. It shows if they qualify for benefits and how much they should get.
What information is included in a Record of Employment?
A Canadian record of employment has your job start and end date, your total earnings, hours worked, and a reason code for why you stopped working.
How can an employer submit an ROE electronically?
Employers can submit a Record of Employment electronically using the ROE Web system on the official Service Canada website. This secure online platform allows them to enter all necessary employee details and submit the form directly. It’s faster, more efficient, and ensures the ROE reaches Service Canada on time, helping employees access EI benefits without delay.
