I have been on long term disability for a little less than 2 years and am now returning on to my job on a gradual return to work program. My insurance provider is saying that the duration of my RTW is paid out by the insurance company and not the employer. I’m confused by this. I’m a pregnant and will be going on maternity leave in a few months so I need to accumulate my hours for EI. Do the hours on a return to work plan count towards EI hours? The insurance company does not deduct EI premiums from what they pay me so I’m not sure if it’s right that I’m working in my employment on a gradual basis but not able to contribute to EI premiums until the RTW is over.