Last updated: April 1, 2020 9:15pm PST
FINANCIAL SUPPORT QUESTIONS & INFORMATION
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit
If you have lost income because of COVID-19, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will provide you with temporary income support.
The CERB will provide you with $500 a week for up to 16 weeks.
The Government of Canada is targeting April 6, 2020 as the date when they can start accepting applications.
How to apply
The Government of Canada will start accepting applications on April 6.
Prior to April 6, individuals who are without work and are eligible for EI can continue to apply for Employment Insurance.
Important!
If you are not eligible for Employment Insurance, find out how you can get ready to apply for the CERB through the Canada Revenue Agency. Whether you apply online or by phone, the CRA wants to provide the best service possible to everyone.
To help manage this, the CRA has set up specific days for you to apply.
Eligibility
The benefit will be available to workers:
The Benefit is only available to individuals who stopped work as a result of reasons related to COVID-19.
If you are looking for a job but haven’t stopped working because of COVID-19, you are not eligible for the Benefit.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FAQ'S ON CERB:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application.html
If you have lost income because of COVID-19, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will provide you with temporary income support.
The CERB will provide you with $500 a week for up to 16 weeks.
The Government of Canada is targeting April 6, 2020 as the date when they can start accepting applications.
How to apply
The Government of Canada will start accepting applications on April 6.
Prior to April 6, individuals who are without work and are eligible for EI can continue to apply for Employment Insurance.
Important!
If you are not eligible for Employment Insurance, find out how you can get ready to apply for the CERB through the Canada Revenue Agency. Whether you apply online or by phone, the CRA wants to provide the best service possible to everyone.
To help manage this, the CRA has set up specific days for you to apply.
Eligibility
The benefit will be available to workers:
- Residing in Canada, who are at least 15 years old;
- Who have stopped working because of COVID-19 or are eligible for Employment Insurance regular or sickness benefits:
- Who had income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application; and
- Who are 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, they expect to have no employment income.
The Benefit is only available to individuals who stopped work as a result of reasons related to COVID-19.
If you are looking for a job but haven’t stopped working because of COVID-19, you are not eligible for the Benefit.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FAQ'S ON CERB:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application.html
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
What It Means for Canadian Businesses
To help businesses keep and return workers to their payroll through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada proposed the new Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy.
This would provide a 75-per-cent wage subsidy to eligible employers for up to 12 weeks, retroactive to March 15, 2020.
This wage subsidy aims to prevent further job losses, encourage employers to re-hire workers previously laid off as a result of COVID-19, and help better position Canadian companies and other employers to more easily resume normal operations following the crisis.
While the Government has designed the proposed wage subsidy to provide generous and timely financial support to employers, it was done with the expectation that employers will do their part by using the subsidy in a manner that supports the health and well-being of their employees.
Eligible Employers
Eligible employers would include individuals, taxable corporations, and partnerships consisting of eligible employers as well as non‑profit organizations and registered charities.
Public bodies would not be eligible for this subsidy. Public bodies include municipalities and local governments, Crown corporations, public universities, colleges, schools and hospitals.
This subsidy would be available to eligible employers that see a drop of at least 30 per cent of their revenue (see Eligible Periods).
In applying for the subsidy, employers would be required to attest to the decline in revenue.
Calculating Revenues
An employer’s revenue for this purpose would be its revenue from its business carried on in Canada earned from arm’s-length sources. Revenue would be calculated using the employer’s normal accounting method, and would exclude revenues from extraordinary items and amounts on account of capital.
For non-profits and charities, the government will continue to work with the sector to ensure the definition of revenue is appropriate to their specific circumstances.
Amount of Subsidy
The subsidy amount for a given employee on eligible remuneration paid between March 15 and June 6, 2020 would be the greater of:
- 75 per cent of the amount of remuneration paid, up to a maximum benefit of $847 per week; and
- the amount of remuneration paid, up to a maximum benefit of $847 per week or 75 per cent of the employee’s pre-crisis weekly remuneration, whichever is less.
In effect, employers may be eligible for a subsidy of up to 100 per cent of the first 75 per cent of pre-crisis wages or salaries of existing employees.
These employers would be expected where possible to maintain existing employees’ pre-crisis employment earnings.
Employers will also be eligible for a subsidy of up to 75 per cent of salaries and wages paid to new employees.
Eligible remuneration may include salary, wages, and other remuneration. These are amounts for which employers would generally be required to withhold or deduct amounts to remit to the Receiver General on account of the employee’s income tax obligation. However, it does not include severance pay, or items such as stock option benefits or the personal use of a corporate vehicle.
A special rule will apply to employees that do not deal at arm’s length with the employer. The subsidy amount for such employees will be limited to the eligible remuneration paid in any pay period between March 15 and June 6, 2020, up to a maximum benefit of $847 per week or 75 per cent of the employee’s pre-crisis weekly remuneration.
There would be no overall limit on the subsidy amount that an eligible employer may claim.
Employers must make their best effort to top-up employees’ salaries to bring them to pre-crisis levels.
Eligible Periods
Eligibility would generally be determined by the change in an eligible employer’s monthly revenues, year-over-year, for the calendar month in which the period began.
The amount of wage subsidy (provided under the COVID-19 Economic Response Plan) received by the employer in a given month would be ignored for the purpose of measuring year-over-year changes in monthly revenues.
- For example, if revenues in March 2020 were down 50 per cent compared to March 2019, the employer would be allowed to claim the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (as calculated above) on remuneration paid between March 15 and April 11, 2020.
The table below outlines each claiming period and the period in which it has a decline in revenue of 30 per cent or more.
For eligible employers established after February 2019, eligibility would be determined by comparing monthly revenues to a reasonable benchmark.
How to Apply
Eligible employers would be able to apply for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy through the Canada Revenue Agency’s My Business Account portal as well as a web-based application.
Employers would have to keep records demonstrating their reduction in arm’s-length revenues and remuneration paid to employees.
More details about the application process will be made available shortly.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION:
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/wage-subsidy.html
Are my Canadian income taxes still due in April?
In order to provide greater flexibility to Canadians who may be experiencing hardships during the COVID-19 outbreak, the Canada Revenue Agency will defer the filing due date for the 2019 tax returns of individuals, including certain trusts.
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all taxpayers to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020.
This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
In order to reduce the necessity for taxpayers and tax preparers to meet in person during this difficult time, and to reduce administrative burden, effective immediately the Canada Revenue Agency will recognize electronic signatures as having met the signature requirements of the Income Tax Act, as a temporary administrative measure. This provision applies to authorization forms T183 or T183CORP, which are forms that are signed in person by millions of Canadians every year to authorize tax preparers to file taxes.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency.html
In order to provide greater flexibility to Canadians who may be experiencing hardships during the COVID-19 outbreak, the Canada Revenue Agency will defer the filing due date for the 2019 tax returns of individuals, including certain trusts.
- For individuals (other than trusts), the return filing due date will be deferred until June 1, 2020. However, the Agency encourages individuals who expect to receive benefits under the GSTC or the Canada Child Benefit not to delay the filing of their return to ensure their entitlements for the 2020-21 benefit year are properly determined.
- For trusts having a taxation year ending on December 31, 2019, the return filing due date will be deferred until May 1, 2020.
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all taxpayers to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020.
This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
In order to reduce the necessity for taxpayers and tax preparers to meet in person during this difficult time, and to reduce administrative burden, effective immediately the Canada Revenue Agency will recognize electronic signatures as having met the signature requirements of the Income Tax Act, as a temporary administrative measure. This provision applies to authorization forms T183 or T183CORP, which are forms that are signed in person by millions of Canadians every year to authorize tax preparers to file taxes.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency.html
I receive Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and/or GST Rebate, should I wait to June 1st to file my taxes?
We encourage you to file your income tax and benefit return electronically and as early as possible before June 1, 2020, to make sure your benefits and credits are not interrupted.
You are encouraged to register for direct deposit on CRA’s My Account self-service portal, as this is the quickest and most reliable way to get benefit and credit payments.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#individuals
We encourage you to file your income tax and benefit return electronically and as early as possible before June 1, 2020, to make sure your benefits and credits are not interrupted.
You are encouraged to register for direct deposit on CRA’s My Account self-service portal, as this is the quickest and most reliable way to get benefit and credit payments.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#individuals
I receive the Canada Child Benefit. Should I wait should I wait to June 1st to file my taxes?
We encourage you to file your income tax and benefit return electronically and as early as possible before June 1, 2020, to make sure your benefits and credits are not interrupted.
You are encouraged to register for direct deposit on CRA’s My Account self-service portal, as this is the quickest and most reliable way to get benefit and credit payments.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#individuals
We encourage you to file your income tax and benefit return electronically and as early as possible before June 1, 2020, to make sure your benefits and credits are not interrupted.
You are encouraged to register for direct deposit on CRA’s My Account self-service portal, as this is the quickest and most reliable way to get benefit and credit payments.
For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#individuals
What if I can't pay my mortgage during this crisis?
The Minister of Finance is in regular contact with the heads of Canada’s large banks, and continues to encourage them to show flexibility in helping their customers whose personal or business finances are affected by COVID-19. The Superintendent of Financial Institutions has also made clear his expectation that banks will use the additional lending capacity provided by recent government actions to support Canadian businesses and households.
In response, banks in Canada have affirmed their commitment to working with customers to provide flexible solutions, on a case-by-case basis, for managing through hardships caused by recent developments. This may include situations such as pay disruption, childcare disruption, or illness. Canada’s large banks have confirmed that this support will include up to a 6-month payment deferral for mortgages, and the opportunity for relief on other credit products. These targeted measures respond to immediate challenges being faced across the country and will help stabilize the Canadian economy.
Mortgage Default Management Tools
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and other mortgage insurers offer tools to lenders that can assist homeowners who may be experiencing financial difficulty. These include payment deferral, loan re-amortization, capitalization of outstanding interest arrears and other eligible expenses, and special payment arrangements.
The Government, through CMHC, is providing increased flexibility for homeowners facing financial difficulties to defer mortgage payments on homeowner CMHC-insured mortgage loans. CMHC will permit lenders to allow payment deferral beginning immediately.
The Minister of Finance is in regular contact with the heads of Canada’s large banks, and continues to encourage them to show flexibility in helping their customers whose personal or business finances are affected by COVID-19. The Superintendent of Financial Institutions has also made clear his expectation that banks will use the additional lending capacity provided by recent government actions to support Canadian businesses and households.
In response, banks in Canada have affirmed their commitment to working with customers to provide flexible solutions, on a case-by-case basis, for managing through hardships caused by recent developments. This may include situations such as pay disruption, childcare disruption, or illness. Canada’s large banks have confirmed that this support will include up to a 6-month payment deferral for mortgages, and the opportunity for relief on other credit products. These targeted measures respond to immediate challenges being faced across the country and will help stabilize the Canadian economy.
Mortgage Default Management Tools
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and other mortgage insurers offer tools to lenders that can assist homeowners who may be experiencing financial difficulty. These include payment deferral, loan re-amortization, capitalization of outstanding interest arrears and other eligible expenses, and special payment arrangements.
The Government, through CMHC, is providing increased flexibility for homeowners facing financial difficulties to defer mortgage payments on homeowner CMHC-insured mortgage loans. CMHC will permit lenders to allow payment deferral beginning immediately.
Are you laid off because of COVID-19 and qualify for Employment Insurance?
Apply for EI immediately – Online is the best option.
There have been no changes to the waiting period or time to received benefits under regular EI.
Click here for information: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-regular-benefit/eligibility.html
Apply for EI immediately – Online is the best option.
There have been no changes to the waiting period or time to received benefits under regular EI.
Click here for information: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-regular-benefit/eligibility.html
Are you sick, under quarantine, or caring for someone sick and are eligible for Employment Insurance?
Apply for EI sickness immediately – Online is the best option.
1 week waiting period is being waived for COVID cases
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-sickness.html
Apply for EI sickness immediately – Online is the best option.
1 week waiting period is being waived for COVID cases
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-sickness.html
Additional financial support for Canadians
GST TAX CREDIT INCREASE
For over 12 million low- and modest-income families, who may require additional help with their finances, the Government is proposing to provide a one-time special payment by early May 2020 through the Goods and Services Tax credit (GSTC). This will double the maximum annual GSTC payment amounts for the 2019-20 benefit year. The average boost to income for those benefitting from this measure will be close to $400 for single individuals and close to $600 for couples.
CANADA CHILD BENEFIT INCREASE
For over 3.5 million families with children, who may also require additional support, the Government is proposing to increase the maximum annual Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment amounts, only for the 2019-20 benefit year, by $300 per child. The overall increase for families receiving CCB will be approximately $550 on average; these families will receive an extra $300 per child as part of their May payment.
For more information, click here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/canadas-covid-19-economic-response-plan-support-for-canadians-and-businesses.html#Income_Support_for
GST TAX CREDIT INCREASE
For over 12 million low- and modest-income families, who may require additional help with their finances, the Government is proposing to provide a one-time special payment by early May 2020 through the Goods and Services Tax credit (GSTC). This will double the maximum annual GSTC payment amounts for the 2019-20 benefit year. The average boost to income for those benefitting from this measure will be close to $400 for single individuals and close to $600 for couples.
CANADA CHILD BENEFIT INCREASE
For over 3.5 million families with children, who may also require additional support, the Government is proposing to increase the maximum annual Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment amounts, only for the 2019-20 benefit year, by $300 per child. The overall increase for families receiving CCB will be approximately $550 on average; these families will receive an extra $300 per child as part of their May payment.
For more information, click here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/canadas-covid-19-economic-response-plan-support-for-canadians-and-businesses.html#Income_Support_for
SMALL & MEDIUM BUSINESS SUPPORT
Extending Work-Sharing program
The Government of Canada is Implementing the EI Work Sharing Program, which provides EI benefits to workers who agree to reduce their normal working hour as a result of developments beyond the control of their employers, by extending the eligibility of such agreements to 76 weeks, easing eligibility requirements, and streamlining the application process.
Click here to apply: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/work-sharing/apply.html
Helping Businesses Keep their Workers
The Government of Canada announced an up to 75 per cent wage subsidy for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020.
This will help businesses to keep and return workers to the payroll.
More details on eligibility criteria will start with the impact of COVID-19 on sales, and will be shared before the end of the month.
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all businesses to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020. This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
The Canada Revenue Agency will not contact any small or medium (SME) businesses to initiate any post assessment GST/HST or Income Tax audits for the next four weeks. For the vast majority of businesses, the Canada Revenue Agency will temporarily suspend audit interaction with taxpayers and representatives.
The Liaison Officer service offers help to owners of small businesses to understand their tax obligations. Traditionally available in-person, this service is now available over the phone and will be customizing information during these challenging times by ensuring small businesses are aware of any changes such as filing and payment deadlines, proactive relief measures, etc.
Access to credit
Establishing a Business Credit Availability Program
We established a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largely targeted to small and medium-sized businesses, through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).
BDC and EDC are cooperating with private sector lenders to coordinate on credit solutions for individual businesses, including in sectors such as oil and gas, air transportation and tourism.
As a first step, businesses in need of credit support should contact their financial institution.
Learn more about the Business Credit Availability Program
Offering a guarantee on loans
Export Development Canada is supporting businesses by offering their bank a guarantee on loans of up to $5 million to ensure that companies can access more cash immediately.
For more details, contact your financial institution.
Learn more
The New Canada Emergency Business Account
The Government of Canada is launching the new Canada Emergency Business Account - a new loan program, that will be implemented rapidly by eligible financial institutions in cooperation with Export Development Canada (EDC).
This $25 billion program will provide interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits, to help cover their operating costs during a period where their revenues have been temporarily reduced.
To qualify, these organizations will need to demonstrate they paid between $50,000 to $1 million in total payroll in 2019. Repaying the balance of the loan on or before December 31, 2022 will result in loan forgiveness of 25 per cent (up to $10,000).
Additional details on accessing this program will be available soon.
A New Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Export Development Canada is working with financial institutions so that they can issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans of up to $6.25 million to SMEs.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
A New Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
The Co-Lending Program will bring the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) together with financial institutions to co-lend term loans to SMEs for their operational cash flow requirements.
Through the Co-Lending Program, eligible businesses may obtain incremental credit amounts of up to $6.25 million through the program.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments
The Government of Canada will allow businesses, including self-employed individuals, to defer until June 30, 2020 payments of the Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), as well as customs duties owing on their imports.
The deferral will apply to GST/HST remittances for the February, March and April 2020 reporting periods for monthly filers; the January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020 reporting period for quarterly filers; and for annual filers, the amounts collected and owing for their previous fiscal year and instalments of GST/HST in respect of the filer’s current fiscal year.
For GST and customs duty payments for imported goods, deferral will include amounts owing for March, April and May.
These amounts were normally due to be submitted to the Canada Revenue Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency as early as the end of this month.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
Extending Work-Sharing program
The Government of Canada is Implementing the EI Work Sharing Program, which provides EI benefits to workers who agree to reduce their normal working hour as a result of developments beyond the control of their employers, by extending the eligibility of such agreements to 76 weeks, easing eligibility requirements, and streamlining the application process.
Click here to apply: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/work-sharing/apply.html
Helping Businesses Keep their Workers
The Government of Canada announced an up to 75 per cent wage subsidy for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020.
This will help businesses to keep and return workers to the payroll.
More details on eligibility criteria will start with the impact of COVID-19 on sales, and will be shared before the end of the month.
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all businesses to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020. This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
The Canada Revenue Agency will not contact any small or medium (SME) businesses to initiate any post assessment GST/HST or Income Tax audits for the next four weeks. For the vast majority of businesses, the Canada Revenue Agency will temporarily suspend audit interaction with taxpayers and representatives.
The Liaison Officer service offers help to owners of small businesses to understand their tax obligations. Traditionally available in-person, this service is now available over the phone and will be customizing information during these challenging times by ensuring small businesses are aware of any changes such as filing and payment deadlines, proactive relief measures, etc.
Access to credit
Establishing a Business Credit Availability Program
We established a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largely targeted to small and medium-sized businesses, through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).
BDC and EDC are cooperating with private sector lenders to coordinate on credit solutions for individual businesses, including in sectors such as oil and gas, air transportation and tourism.
As a first step, businesses in need of credit support should contact their financial institution.
Learn more about the Business Credit Availability Program
Offering a guarantee on loans
Export Development Canada is supporting businesses by offering their bank a guarantee on loans of up to $5 million to ensure that companies can access more cash immediately.
For more details, contact your financial institution.
Learn more
The New Canada Emergency Business Account
The Government of Canada is launching the new Canada Emergency Business Account - a new loan program, that will be implemented rapidly by eligible financial institutions in cooperation with Export Development Canada (EDC).
This $25 billion program will provide interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits, to help cover their operating costs during a period where their revenues have been temporarily reduced.
To qualify, these organizations will need to demonstrate they paid between $50,000 to $1 million in total payroll in 2019. Repaying the balance of the loan on or before December 31, 2022 will result in loan forgiveness of 25 per cent (up to $10,000).
Additional details on accessing this program will be available soon.
A New Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Export Development Canada is working with financial institutions so that they can issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans of up to $6.25 million to SMEs.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
A New Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
The Co-Lending Program will bring the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) together with financial institutions to co-lend term loans to SMEs for their operational cash flow requirements.
Through the Co-Lending Program, eligible businesses may obtain incremental credit amounts of up to $6.25 million through the program.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments
The Government of Canada will allow businesses, including self-employed individuals, to defer until June 30, 2020 payments of the Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), as well as customs duties owing on their imports.
The deferral will apply to GST/HST remittances for the February, March and April 2020 reporting periods for monthly filers; the January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020 reporting period for quarterly filers; and for annual filers, the amounts collected and owing for their previous fiscal year and instalments of GST/HST in respect of the filer’s current fiscal year.
For GST and customs duty payments for imported goods, deferral will include amounts owing for March, April and May.
These amounts were normally due to be submitted to the Canada Revenue Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency as early as the end of this month.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
Support for farmers
The Government of Canada has increased credit available to farmers and the agri-food sector through Farm Credit Canada.
The Government of Canada has increased credit available to farmers and the agri-food sector through Farm Credit Canada.
TRAVEL QUESTIONS
What is happening at the Canadian border?
Until June 30, 2020, travel to Canada will be restricted for all foreign nationals coming from any country other than the United States (U.S.). Certain restrictions will apply to those travelling from the U.S.
These new restrictions prohibit foreign nationals, including U.S. nationals, from entering Canada for non-essential travel.
Restrictions and exemptions for foreign nationals
Foreign nationals may not enter Canada by air or marine if they are arriving from a foreign country.
The following exceptions apply:
Restrictions and exemptions for Canadian and U.S. citizensAs of March 21, 2020, there is a 30-day restriction on all non-essential travel at the Canada-U.S. border.
This restriction covers all travel of an optional or discretionary nature, such as:
Healthy people who must cross the border for work or other essential purposes, such as medical care, may continue to do so.
Some examples of essential travel purposes are:
Canada and the U.S. recognize how closely our economies are integrated. It is essential that trade continue during this pandemic. Economic supply chains remain open and we will work to ensure that access to goods and services is not interrupted.
Crossing the border
Entry screening is an important public health tool. Canada Border Services Agency officers are trained to perform entry screening.
They will ask U.S. travellers and foreign nationals about the purpose of their visit and whether they are feeling ill or unwell. They may also ask other questions.
Some Canadians and Americans, such as truck drivers, firefighters and nurses, cross the border every day to work or study. They will not be impacted by the new border measures.
All international passenger flight arrivals have been redirected to one of 4 airports:
Self-isolation for returning travellersAll travellers who are permitted to enter or return to Canada are being asked to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry. There are exceptions for workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. Individuals should avoid contact with other people for 14 days, while monitoring themselves closely for symptoms.
When showing signs and symptoms of infection
If you are Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you may still enter Canada by land, rail or marine. You may not enter Canada by air, to protect the health of all travellers.
If you are not Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you will not be permitted to enter Canada.
If you show signs of an infectious disease, officials will contact a quarantine officer.
The quarantine officer will perform a more detailed assessment. If necessary, the quarantine officer may:
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/canadas-reponse.html?topic=tilelink#economic
Until June 30, 2020, travel to Canada will be restricted for all foreign nationals coming from any country other than the United States (U.S.). Certain restrictions will apply to those travelling from the U.S.
These new restrictions prohibit foreign nationals, including U.S. nationals, from entering Canada for non-essential travel.
Restrictions and exemptions for foreign nationals
Foreign nationals may not enter Canada by air or marine if they are arriving from a foreign country.
The following exceptions apply:
- immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents
- persons registered as Indians under the Indian Act
- persons with written authorization from a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members
- airline or marine crew members
- diplomats and immediate family members, including representatives from the United Nations and international organizations
- foreign nationals invited by the Canadian government to assist in the COVID-19 response
- persons arriving in an aircraft operated by the Canadian Forces or the Department of National Defence
- members of the Canadian military, visiting forces, and their family members
- protected persons with a convention refugee travel document
- French citizens who live in St. Pierre and Miquelon (SPM) who have only been in SPM, the U.S. or Canada during the previous14 days
- persons who, in the opinion of Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer either:
- do not pose a risk of significant harm to the public health, or
- will provide essential service while in Canada
- passengers transiting through Canada to another country
- transiting passengers will be subject to any travel bans and restrictions the third country has in place
Restrictions and exemptions for Canadian and U.S. citizensAs of March 21, 2020, there is a 30-day restriction on all non-essential travel at the Canada-U.S. border.
This restriction covers all travel of an optional or discretionary nature, such as:
- tourism
- entertainment
- recreation
Healthy people who must cross the border for work or other essential purposes, such as medical care, may continue to do so.
Some examples of essential travel purposes are:
- work and study
- economic services and supply chains
- critical infrastructure support
- health, immediate medical care, safety and security
- shopping for essential goods such as medication or goods necessary for the health and safety of an individual or family
Canada and the U.S. recognize how closely our economies are integrated. It is essential that trade continue during this pandemic. Economic supply chains remain open and we will work to ensure that access to goods and services is not interrupted.
Crossing the border
Entry screening is an important public health tool. Canada Border Services Agency officers are trained to perform entry screening.
They will ask U.S. travellers and foreign nationals about the purpose of their visit and whether they are feeling ill or unwell. They may also ask other questions.
Some Canadians and Americans, such as truck drivers, firefighters and nurses, cross the border every day to work or study. They will not be impacted by the new border measures.
All international passenger flight arrivals have been redirected to one of 4 airports:
- Calgary International Airport
- Vancouver International Airport
- Toronto’s Pearson International Airport
- Montréal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
Self-isolation for returning travellersAll travellers who are permitted to enter or return to Canada are being asked to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry. There are exceptions for workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. Individuals should avoid contact with other people for 14 days, while monitoring themselves closely for symptoms.
When showing signs and symptoms of infection
If you are Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you may still enter Canada by land, rail or marine. You may not enter Canada by air, to protect the health of all travellers.
If you are not Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you will not be permitted to enter Canada.
If you show signs of an infectious disease, officials will contact a quarantine officer.
The quarantine officer will perform a more detailed assessment. If necessary, the quarantine officer may:
- order you to be transported to hospital to undergo a medical examination
- inform the local public health authority
Click here for more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/canadas-reponse.html?topic=tilelink#economic
I am currently outside of Canada. Should I be returning home to Canada earlier than planned?
The government is recommending that travellers find out what options are still available to return to Canada and consider returning as soon as possible. Canadians seeking to return now face reduced commercial travel options and may experience a sudden spike in prices.
To help Canadians abroad return home, the Government of Canada is creating a special financial assistance program, the COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad. With this program, Canadian abroad directly impacted by COVID-19 will have the option of applying for an emergency loan of up to $5,000 to help secure their timely return to Canada and to temporarily cover their life-sustaining needs while they work toward their return.
Ensure that you have sufficient finances and necessities, including medication, in case your travels are disrupted.
Click here to access this program: https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-to-provide-financial-assistance-to-canadians-abroad.html
More information here:
https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices/221
WestJet Airlines says it will suspend all international flights — including to the U.S.
If you have travel booked through WestJet please visit this link: https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/travel-info/advisories
The government is recommending that travellers find out what options are still available to return to Canada and consider returning as soon as possible. Canadians seeking to return now face reduced commercial travel options and may experience a sudden spike in prices.
To help Canadians abroad return home, the Government of Canada is creating a special financial assistance program, the COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad. With this program, Canadian abroad directly impacted by COVID-19 will have the option of applying for an emergency loan of up to $5,000 to help secure their timely return to Canada and to temporarily cover their life-sustaining needs while they work toward their return.
Ensure that you have sufficient finances and necessities, including medication, in case your travels are disrupted.
Click here to access this program: https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-to-provide-financial-assistance-to-canadians-abroad.html
More information here:
https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices/221
WestJet Airlines says it will suspend all international flights — including to the U.S.
If you have travel booked through WestJet please visit this link: https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/travel-info/advisories
Either me or my family member is outside of Canada and is affected by travel bans. What should we do?
Canadians traveling outside of Canada in need of emergency consular assistance can contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca.
For more information: https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emergency-assistance
Canadians traveling outside of Canada in need of emergency consular assistance can contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca.
For more information: https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emergency-assistance
Returning Canadians
All travellers returning from outside Canada are required to self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.
You will be asked if you have a cough, difficulty breathing or fever. If you have any of these symptoms, you will be given instructions on the next steps you are required to take. If you do not have any of these symptoms, you will be asked to do the following:
More information here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/travel
All travellers returning from outside Canada are required to self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.
You will be asked if you have a cough, difficulty breathing or fever. If you have any of these symptoms, you will be given instructions on the next steps you are required to take. If you do not have any of these symptoms, you will be asked to do the following:
- Self-isolate for 14 days after your return to Canada. Some provinces and territories may have specific recommendations for certain groups such as health care workers. Self-isolate means:
- stay home and keep your distance from others
- do not have visitors, especially older adults, or those with medical conditions who are at a higher risk of developing serious illness
- Monitor your health for fever, cough or difficulty breathing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Cover your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing or sneezing.
More information here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/travel
Should I be canceling my travel plans because of COVID-19?
Both provincial and federal health officials have issued advice to all Canadians to avoid or cancel all international travel. Many airlines have waived changed fees. In short, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, health officials are asking you not to travel internationally at this time. Health officials are also requesting Canadians arriving back from international travel to self-isolated for 14 days.
The Government of Canada is advising that Canadians avoid all travel on cruise ships due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, until further notice.
More information here:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html
Both provincial and federal health officials have issued advice to all Canadians to avoid or cancel all international travel. Many airlines have waived changed fees. In short, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, health officials are asking you not to travel internationally at this time. Health officials are also requesting Canadians arriving back from international travel to self-isolated for 14 days.
The Government of Canada is advising that Canadians avoid all travel on cruise ships due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, until further notice.
More information here:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html
GENERAL COVD-19 QUESTIONS
How do I prevent and prepare for COVID-19?
The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
To help reduce your risk of infection:
More information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/prevention
The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
To help reduce your risk of infection:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using soap and water is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection.
- If a sink is not available, alcohol based hand rubs (ABHR) can be used to clean your hands as long as they are not visibly soiled. If they are visibly soiled, use a wipe and then ABHR to effectively clean them.
- Do not touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow when you sneeze or cough.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Do not share food, drinks, utensils, etc.
More information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/prevention
What should I do if I think I have symptoms or think I may have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19?
BC COVID-19 SELF ASSESSMENT TOOL: https://bc.thrive.health/
This self-assessment tool, developed with the BC Ministry of Health, will help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.
You can complete this assessment for yourself, or on behalf of someone else, if they are unable to.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has outlined additional steps to take here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/if-you-are-sick
BC COVID-19 SELF ASSESSMENT TOOL: https://bc.thrive.health/
This self-assessment tool, developed with the BC Ministry of Health, will help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.
You can complete this assessment for yourself, or on behalf of someone else, if they are unable to.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has outlined additional steps to take here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/if-you-are-sick
Is it okay to attend public gatherings?
All event organizers are ordered to limit all public gatherings larger than 50 people. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings or other similar events.
This threshold has been selected, as it is much easier to maintain important social distancing to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
More Information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/event-planning
All event organizers are ordered to limit all public gatherings larger than 50 people. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings or other similar events.
This threshold has been selected, as it is much easier to maintain important social distancing to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
More Information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/event-planning
Where can I get the most up to date information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) and actions being taken to protect the health of British Columbians?
For the most up to date information locally including current situation, risk, cases and testing, prevention, etc. please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
Additional information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
For the most up to date information locally including current situation, risk, cases and testing, prevention, etc. please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
Additional information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
BC PROVINCIAL INFORMATION
Are BC schools K-12 suspended?
As of March 17, 2020, B.C. will be suspending K-12 classes.
Teachers and schools will be developing plans for continuing instruction, outside of the classroom.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Information for post-secondary institutions can be found on this page.
Students, faculty and staff should consult their institution's website for specific information.
As of March 17, 2020, B.C. will be suspending K-12 classes.
Teachers and schools will be developing plans for continuing instruction, outside of the classroom.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Information for post-secondary institutions can be found on this page.
Students, faculty and staff should consult their institution's website for specific information.
I have kids in day care. Should I take them out if I'm able to?
Child Care
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/covid-19-information
Child Care
- Parents who can should care for their children at home
- Child care services can and must be provided in a safe manner for those families whose parents work in critical roles
- The Province will give centres that remain open compensation to continue operating with reduced enrolment
- Centres that close will also receive support for fixed operating costs, like rent or lease payments
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/covid-19-information
I still have to work. Is it safe for me and what if I have to stay home?
At WorkSafeBC, we are actively monitoring and adjusting to the COVID-19 situation to determine how we can best support workers, providers, and employers around the province, while ensuring the health and safety needs of our own employees.
For more information: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/about-us/covid-19-updates/health-and-safety/what-workers-should-do
At WorkSafeBC, we are actively monitoring and adjusting to the COVID-19 situation to determine how we can best support workers, providers, and employers around the province, while ensuring the health and safety needs of our own employees.
For more information: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/about-us/covid-19-updates/health-and-safety/what-workers-should-do
What provincial supports are available to me if I can't work?
BC Emergency Benefit for Workers
The BC Emergency Benefit for Workers will provide a one-time $1,000 payment to people who lost income because of COVID-19.
Climate Action Tax Credit
A one-time enhancement to the climate action tax credit will be paid in July 2020 for moderate to low-income families:
B.C. Student Loans
Starting March 30, 2020, B.C. student loan payments are automatically frozen for six months.
Monthly Bills
BC Hydro
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/covid-19-financial-supports#BCEBW
BC Emergency Benefit for Workers
The BC Emergency Benefit for Workers will provide a one-time $1,000 payment to people who lost income because of COVID-19.
- B.C. residents who receive federal Employment Insurance, or the new federal Emergency Care Benefit, or the new federal Emergency Support Benefit are eligible
- Applications will open in April 2020
- The one-time payment will be paid in May 2020
Climate Action Tax Credit
A one-time enhancement to the climate action tax credit will be paid in July 2020 for moderate to low-income families:
- An adult will receive up to $218.00 (increased from $174.00)
- A child will receive $64.00 (increased from $51.00)
B.C. Student Loans
Starting March 30, 2020, B.C. student loan payments are automatically frozen for six months.
Monthly Bills
BC Hydro
- Customers can defer bill payments or arrange for flexible payment plans with no penalty through the COVID-19 Customer Assistance Program
- Customers experiencing job loss, illness or lost wages due to COVID-19 can access grants up to $600 to pay their hydro bills through the Customer Crisis Fund
- Customers on a monthly payment plan who are facing financial challenges due to COVID-19 may defer their payment for up to 90 days with no penalty
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/covid-19-financial-supports#BCEBW
I work for myself or own a small business, what can I expect in terms of support?
Deferred Tax Payments
Effective immediately, B.C. is extending filing and payment deadlines for the following taxes until September 30, 2020:
Delayed Carbon Tax Increase
Carbon tax rates will remain at their current levels until further notice. The tax measure announced in Budget 2020 aligning the carbon tax rates with the federal carbon pricing backstop is also postponed until further notice.
Reduced School Tax Rates for Businesses
School tax rates for commercial properties (Classes 4, 5 and 6) will be reduced by 50% for the 2020 tax year.
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/covid-19-financial-supports#BCEBW
Deferred Tax Payments
Effective immediately, B.C. is extending filing and payment deadlines for the following taxes until September 30, 2020:
- Employer health tax
- Provincial sales tax (including municipal and regional district tax)
- Carbon tax
- Motor fuel tax
- Tobacco tax
Delayed Carbon Tax Increase
Carbon tax rates will remain at their current levels until further notice. The tax measure announced in Budget 2020 aligning the carbon tax rates with the federal carbon pricing backstop is also postponed until further notice.
Reduced School Tax Rates for Businesses
School tax rates for commercial properties (Classes 4, 5 and 6) will be reduced by 50% for the 2020 tax year.
For more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/covid-19-financial-supports#BCEBW
Should you have questions or concerns not answered here, please contact my office at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or at 1-800-665-8711.
My team and I will do our best to direct you to the correct resource.
My team and I will do our best to direct you to the correct resource.