On September 18, 2025, Statistics Canada reported that in July 2025, the number of core-aged women (25–54 years) receiving regular Employment Insurance (EI) benefits rose by 16,000, a 12.0% monthly increase. This group also recorded the largest year-over-year growth, with beneficiaries up 22.9% compared to July 2024. By contrast, other demographic groups, including core-aged men and older women, saw little or no comparable rise. Nationally, the total number of EI recipients reached 552,000, marking a modest 1.2% gain from June but continuing an upward trend observed since early 2025. The data highlight that while overall increases in EI use remain moderate, core-aged women are experiencing the most pronounced growth in benefit claims, pointing to potential gender-specific pressures in the labour market.
Core-aged women lead EI growth in July 2025
