The government CERB benefit is about to run out. October third 2020 is the final date for those who have not already used their 28 weeks. This has given an additional month to the previous deadline that the Canadian Government set for August.
If you haven’t heard of CERB, it’s the Canada Emergency Response Benefit. This benefit provides $2000.00 monthly for a period of 28 weeks to those who have had their jobs effected by Covid-19. This could mean reduced hours, lost wages or being laid-off. These beneficiaries must be at least 15 years of age, and have made $5000.00 in the last 12 months.
Temporary foreign workers an international students may also apply for CERB as long as they meet the same criteria as Canadian citizens. In addition, they must also hold a valid Social Insurance Number. Which is good news for the many foreign workers in the service industry, as it continues to be highly impacted by the pandemic.
Life after CERB
Canada is still yet to gain back job lost in tourism and other supporting industries. Airlines in particular have been hit hard. According to Statista, the North American market has lost 23.1 billion in revenues. Airlines in Canada purchase goods and services, creating another 268,000 jobs. Although not all these jobs have been lost, many are still in limbo. Furthermore, these numbers give a good representation of how different industries connect to job creation around the country. Recovery looks a lot slower for these industries, as travel restrictions are still in full effect.
However, when CERB ends there will be new options. Three new benefits are to be in place by the end of September to primarily help those laid-off. These are,
- (CRB) Canada Recovery Benefit
- (CRSB) Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit
- (CRCB) Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit
Lets take a brief look at each, as shown on the Canadian Government’s website.
(CRB) Canada Recovery Benefit
The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) will provide $400 per week for up to 26 weeks, to workers who are self-employed or are not eligible for EI and who still require income support and who are available and looking for work. This benefit will support Canadians whose income has dropped or not returned due to COVID-19. The benefit will allow Canadians to earn more income while on claim as well as include links to Job Bank, Canada’s national employment service, with career planning tools for those seeking employment.
(CRSB) Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit
The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) will provide $500 per week for up to two weeks, for workers who are sick or must self-isolate for reasons related to COVID-19.
(CRCB) Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit
- The Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) will provide $500 per week for up to 26 weeks per household, for eligible Canadians unable to work because they must care for:
- a child under age 12 due to the closures of schools or daycares because of COVID-19.
- a family member with a disability or a dependent because their day program or care facility is closed due to COVID-19.
- a child, a family member with a disability, or a dependent who is not attending school, daycare, or other care facilities under the advice of a medical professional due to being at high-risk if they contract COVID-19.
Can I apply?
Following the end of CERB, these three financial options will be in effect for a period of one year. As previously mentioned, immigrants, international students and temporary workers are eligible for CERB. If applicable and necessary, it is recommended that you apply before the deadline at the end of September.
To find out if you are eligible for and of the three new programs, you can contact us through the link.