Can I get any help if I don't have enough work hours for regular benefits?

Under the Employment Insurance Act, there is a provision that allows for the creation of a special scheme for certain workers. Specifically, the law states that the Commission may "make any regulations it considers necessary respecting the establishment and operation of a scheme to ensure that special benefits are provided to insured persons who have at least 600 hours of insurable employment in their qualifying period but who do not qualify to receive benefits under section 7" [cite:ca-ei-act-sec153p1]. This means that even if you do not meet the standard hours required for regular unemployment benefits (which are listed in a table based on your local unemployment rate) [cite:ca-ei-act-sec7], you may still be eligible for a different type of assistance if you have worked at least 600 hours. In your specific case, you worked 620 hours between late September and the end of February. Since 620 is greater than the 600-hour threshold mentioned in the Act, you fall into the category of people for whom a special scheme might be established [cite:ca-ei-act-sec153p1]. This scheme is separate from the regular benefits and can have its own unique rules regarding how much you get, how long you receive it, and how you qualify [cite:ca-ei-act-sec153p1]. It is important to note that the law does not automatically grant you these benefits; rather, it gives the government the power to create a program for people in your exact situation. Whether you actually receive money depends on the specific regulations that have been written for that special scheme. Additionally, if you have any previous violations on your record, the number of hours you need to qualify might be higher [cite:ca-ei-act-sec7p1]. State, provincial, or local laws may add further rules regarding financial assistance, so you should check your local provincial social assistance programs as well.