Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB): All you need to know

The application process for Canada Emergency Response Benefits is open starting at 6 a.m. ET on Monday.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses Canadians on the COVID-19 pandemic from Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

How to apply:

You can either apply online via CRA My Account or over the phone with automated phone service.

If you are applying online, sign in to CRA My Account and you will find COVID-19: Canada Emergency Response Benefit in the alert banner at the top of the web page.

Select the period you want to apply for and declare that you qualify and confirm the government has the right payment information. Make sure your direct deposit and mailing information is up to date with the CRA.

If you are applying over the phone, call the toll-free line at 1-800-959-2019. Have your social insurance number and postal code ready to verify your identity.

Both services will be open 21 hours a day,7 days a week, except between 3 am to 6am.

When you should apply:

To handle the high volume of applications and ensure the portal stays intact, the government has put the following guidelines:

If you were born in January, February or March, Monday is your dedicated login day. Tuesdays for those born in April through June. Wednesdays for those born in July, August or September and Thursdays for those born in October through December.

Who can apply:

To qualify for CERB, you must:

• Reside in Canada and at least 15 years old.

• Have stopped working because of COVID-19.

• Have had a minimum income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or the 12 months before the date of the application.

• Have been or expect to be without employment or self-employment income for at least 14 consecutive days in the initial four-week period. For subsequent benefit periods, you expect to have no employment income.

CERB is also available for workers who are eligible for EI regular or sickness benefits after March 15.

People who are eligible for EI can apply through the EI application from the Service Canada website and will automatically be enrolled in CERB.

How long the process will take:

• The payment is $2000 a month for up to four months.

• The money will be directly deposited in your bank account within 3-5 days. Those who use mail will receive the payment within 10 days.

• The benefit is available from March 15 to October 3. Applicants will need to confirm their eligibility.
  

By: Aldrin Gomes.