Hundreds of government workers who handle Employment Insurance claims are about to join the ranks of the unemployed, The Canadian Press reports.

In a bid to balance its budget, Service Canada has decided to cut 600 workers across the country, in addition to 600 who were let go in May.

The union representing the employees was formally notified Friday afternoon and was warned more cuts may come in January.

Many of those who will lose their jobs provide Canadians with help on everything from passport applications and pension problems to processing their EI claims.

Steve McCuaig of the Canada Employment and Immigration Union says Canadians who receive those services will be the ones hurt by the job cuts.

McCuaig says the move could have a big impact on the elderly and those with disabilities who rely on Service Canada staff to help them with their pensions.