What determines the duration of Employment Insurance benefits?

The duration of Employment Insurance (EI) benefits is primarily determined by regional employment rates and the number of insurable hours worked by the claimant. This reflects the economic conditions in different areas, as benefits are designed to support individuals based on local job availability and employment challenges.

Higher unemployment rates in a region may lead to longer eligibility periods for EI benefits since more support may be needed in areas with fewer job opportunities. Additionally, the number of insurable hours worked directly affects how much support a worker is entitled to, as EI eligibility often requires a minimum number of insurable hours accumulated in the weeks leading up to a claim.

Thus, the correct answer underscores the influence of both local labor market conditions and an individual's work history on the assessment of their benefits duration.