Federal Government Announces Support for Individuals and Families

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that through the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, the Government of Canada will provide a taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to four months to the following categories of workers:

• those workers who must stop working due to COVID-19 and do not have access to paid leave or other income support.
• workers who may still have their employment but are not being paid because there is currently not sufficient work and their employer has asked them not to come to work.
• those workers who are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19. 
• those working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children that are sick or need additional care because of school and daycare closures.
• wage earners and self-employed individuals, including contract workers, who would not otherwise be eligible for Employment Insurance.

Application details will be available through My CRA and My Service Canada in early April. If individuals are not currently registered on either My CRA or My Service Canada, sign up now if you intend to apply for the benefit. Applicants will also be able to apply via an automated telephone line or via a toll-free number.

To learn more about Canada's Emergency Response Benefit and other federal supports, click here.