The Buzz

COVID-19 Update

New details on changes to EI program, as it transitions away from CERB 

On August 20, 2020 government announced changes to the Employment Insurance (EI) program and new income support benefits for Canadians. They also announced that in preparation for this transition and to ensure support continues for Canadians whose employment has been impacted by the pandemic, the CERB will be extended by an additional 4 weeks to a maximum of 28 weeks. 

Government also proposed the introduction of three new benefits: the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit. They intend to introduce new legislation to support the implementation of these new benefits. 

Further details on the changes to EI and the proposed new benefits can be found through links on the Government of Canada’s webpage “Canada’s CoVID-19 Economic Response Plan”. 

CEWS

Applications for claim period 6 (August 2 to August 26) will open on September 2, 2020. For more information on the CEWS and changes announced in July please visit the CEWS webpage. 

CPB Canada COVID-19 Resources Page 

You will find current and credible resources on COVID-19 programs, resources and more on our COVID-19 resources page on the CPB Canada website. The provincial and territorial page contains links to provincial and territorial re-opening plans and guidelines for businesses.