If you stopped working because of reasons related to COVID-19, you can apply for the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
The program offers $500 a week for up to 16 weeks, to eligible Canadians.
Beginning next week, the CRA will be accepting applications. They want you to apply on a specific day of the week in order to limit the volume of applications they receive at one time.
Anyone born in January, February, and March are scheduled to apply on Monday.
Anyone born in April, May, and June applies on Tuesday.
Anyone born in July, August, and September should apply on Wednesday.
Anyone born in October, November, and December can apply on Thursday.
For anyone who missed their day to apply, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will be open for all applications.
To be eligible for the benefit, you must be a Canadian resident that’s at least 15 years old, and has stopped working because of COVID-19; not because you voluntarily quit your job.
You also must have an income of at least $5,000 in 2019, or in the 12 months prior to the date of application.
For more information on applying, and to find a list of FAQ’s, visit the government CERB website.
