I think that people that are out of work have to accept whatever contracts they can get when they come up. So many people hold off, choosing to wait for that full time contract, but I have found that by accepting a series of shorter term contracts it's quite possible to manage. I don't get rich, but my lawn guy is still employed. Furthermore, being hired for the full time position usually takes a few weeks with initial and second interviews, decision times and so on. Most organizations are willing to accept that the "start time" has to accommodate everyone so there's no real advantage to turning down short term contracts while waiting for long term fulltime positions.
As for EI, I did that for the first time a couple of years ago and it seems to me that there was a very short window for filng the paperwork, which is done with one walk-in visit to the appropriate office (with all the correct paperwork). After that, everything could be done online. I never waited to talk to anyone on the phone. I found it to be a very smooth process. Because I worked when I could, while on EI, I was encouraged to apply to have the 50 weeks extended ... but didn't bother. How does it work filing an EI claim from a year ago?
They owed me from a year ago and I couldnt refile untill I finished off that claim.Go figure........I still took the $400.00 as I havent had a cheque since november.
I find EI is about one of the most efficient govt. organizations I ever had to deal with,it takes you ten minutes to apply online and usually a week after you fill your report to get paid.
Thats why I find it strange that you cant get on the govt. website and you get a busy signal when calling the 1 800#
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