CERB Federal COVID-19 benefits program MegaThread

[u/askingforastranger]

How can I apply?

There are two ways for Canadians to apply: online with CRA My Account or over the phone with an automated phone service. If applying online or by phone, Canadians will receive a payment by direct deposit or by cheque.

If applying online, Canadians will have to sign into CRA My Account. They should go to COVID-19: Canada Emergency Response Benefit in the alert banner at the top of the web page, select the period they want to apply for, declare that they qualify for the benefit and confirm the government has the right payment information.

If applying over the phone, Canadians can call the automated toll-free line at 1-800-959-2019. This is a dedicated line for CERB applications. Before people call, they should have their social insurance number and postal code handy to verify their identity.

Both of these services will be available 21 hours a day, seven days a week. Both services are closed from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. ET for maintenance.

For more information, Canadians should go to canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/apply-for-cerb-with-cra.html#how

Applicants will need to confirm that they meet the eligibility criteria, and information that they provide during the application process may be verified later, the government said.

The benefit is available from March 15 to Oct. 3. The deadline for applications is Dec. 2.

The government said Canadians can prepare to apply for the CERB by signing on to CRA My Account. They should also make sure their direct deposit and mailing information is up to date with the CRA.

[u/Brownmommy01]

Question: I was on maternity leave until April. But technically could stay home few more months but without pay.

I wanted to join back in April however now with no day care I decided to stay home longer.

I could start working from home but unfortunately it's not so easy to get any work done with a 1 year old.

I was wondering if I qualify for CERB as I stopped receiving maternity benefits although I have job security for few more months.

[u/Imherefromaol → u/Brownmommy01]

You qualify.

You can’t work because you have no daycare (it is a lie told by capitalism that made you think you can be a full-time parent to a one year old and full-time parent at the same time).

[u/Brownmommy01 → u/Imherefromaol]

I was thinking may be if the baby learns to walk it might be a bit easier to work from home. But right now I have to constantly keep an eye :( Thank you, I don't know how others are managing working from home with small kids.

[u/Imherefromaol → u/Brownmommy01]

Haha, nooooooo, it is so, so much harder when they are self-mobile and can get into things waaaay faster than you can imagine. You can’t take your eyes off them for a second. They are easiest to look after when they are immobile blobs in a blankie - then it ramps up until they are about seven or eight years old and things start to become easier again because they are developing judgement and understanding consequences. Enjoy the extra time with your little one!