News

The Federal Government has announced that CERB will be extended an additional four weeks (September 27^th). At that time, recipients will be required to a yet to be revised EI programme or one of three new programmes for those that are not eligible for EI.

Revised EI programme: will include a much lower requirement of 120 working hours to qualify for 26 weeks of a $400 benefit. This is a rather dramatic reduction from the previous requirements of anywhere between 420hrs and 700hrs worked (based on local rate of unemployment). Recipients will still have to be looking for work to qualify.

Importantly: the government said it will freeze EI premiums paid by employees and employers at current levels for two years. 

Three new programmes:

1. Canada Recovery Benefit is for workers who are self-employed or are not eligible for EI and cannot resume work, and will provide $400 per week for up to 26 weeks. Workers will need to repay $0.50 of every dollar earned above an annual net income of $38,000 through their income tax return.
2. Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit is for workers who are ill or who must self-isolate for reasons related to COVID-19.
3. Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit is for workers who are unable to work because they are caring for a child, dependent or family member because schools or daycares are closed due to COVID-19.

The three new programmes will be administered by the CRA and will launch September 27. The above details were provided by the Canadian Live Music Association.