The Canadian government has launched a hub of new benefits to Canadians, for residents and those living outside Canada.
Due to the shutdown of many non-essential business, public amenities, parks, events and festivals, residents have had challenges with employment and workplace processes.
The new Canada Emergency Response Benefit will help everyone who has lost their income because of COVID-19. Watch this video for more info. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/VIr9uORVDA
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 27, 2020
“Maybe you’ve been laid off…. You’re concerned about bills and expenses. Lots of people are worried. I hear that”, said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “I want you to know that your government is going to help you, and your family, get through this.”
The beneficiaries of this plan are categorized into 8 broad segments:
- Employment – if your job has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for different financial assistance programs.
- Senior residents – if you currently have a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF), then be aware that the federal government has temporarily amended the rules for these. No application is necessary as the change is automatic.
- Students – if you are shouldering a student loan, changes have been implemented automatically. Please click here to check status updates if you had applied for the Canada summer jobs program
- Families – parents will receive $300 per child, as part of your regular CCB benefits. Those caring for others will receive $2,000 per month for up to four months (taxable and valid on proof of salary drawn during 2019 as $5,000 per month).
- Personal Finance and Taxes – Tax credits, bill payment and tax deferrals are part of the relief package, subject to consideration on a case to case basis.
- Housing – do you own property in Canada? Homeowners may have the option to defer mortgage payments.
- Business – the federal government will assist businesses impacted by the pandemic in the forms of wage subsidies, loans, and tax relief.
- Non-resident Canadians – please contact your nearest Government of Canada office, or get in touch with Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885 (call collect where available) or mailto:[email protected].
Applications and more information are available here: https://newsinteractives.cbc.ca/coronavirusbenefits/
