The number of Albertans on EI in July 2021 was 244% (131,300) higher than in February 2020. 
 
 An increase in the number of unemployed Albertans during the pandemic explains part of the rise in EI beneficiaries, but temporary changes to the program’s eligibility requirements made last fall are the main factor. 
 
 ATB provides a nice summary analysis on why the numbers are higher:  https://hello.atb.com/employment-insurance-beneficiaries-remain-high 
 
 As of September 12, 2021, the number of Albertans on EI, by age group are: 
 Under 25 years old: 26,260 people 
 25 - 34 years old: 64,820 people 
 35 - 44 years old: 52,960 people 
 45 - 54 years old: 37,770 people 
 55 - 64 years old: 36,650 people 
 65 +: 12,760 people 
 
 Data:  https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/ei/statistics.html

The number of Albertans on EI in July 2021 was 244% (131,300) higher than in February 2020.

An increase in the number of unemployed Albertans during the pandemic explains part of the rise in EI beneficiaries, but temporary changes to the program’s eligibility requirements made last fall are the main factor.

ATB provides a nice summary analysis on why the numbers are higher: 

https://hello.atb.com/employment-insurance-beneficiaries-remain-high

As of September 12, 2021, the number of Albertans on EI, by age group are:

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/ei/statistics.html

Alberta: EI numbers remain high