As our economy continues to recover and businesses rehire employees, our government is winding down some of the individual support programs made available in response to COVID-19. While many programs are coming to an end, others will remain in place to ensure Canadians can receive financial support in the event that they, or a family member, contracts COVID-19 or because of regional lockdowns in response to a rise in COVID-19 cases.
Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit
The government is proposing to create the new Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit which will provide $300 a week to eligible workers who are unable to work due to a temporary local lockdown anytime between October 24, 2021 and May 7, 2022.
The government is proposing to make the benefit available retroactively and available for the entire duration of a government-imposed lockdown. Eligible workers would include those who are ineligible for Employment insurance.
Further details on this proposed benefit will be released in the near future.
Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit
The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) provides $500 ($450 after taxes withheld) per week for up to a maximum of four weeks, for workers who:
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are unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they contracted COVID-19
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are self-isolated for reasons related to COVID-19
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have underlying conditions, are undergoing treatments or have contracted other sicknesses that, in the opinion of a medical practitioner, nurse practitioner, person in authority, government or public health authority, would make them more susceptible to COVID-19.
The CRSB has been extended to November 20, 2021 and the government is proposing a further extension of the benefit until May 7, 2022.
Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit
The Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) provides $500 ($450 after taxes withheld) for up to 42 weeks per household for workers:
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unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or family member because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19
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because the child or family member is sick and/or required to quarantine or is at high risk of serious health implications because of COVID-19.
The CRSB has been extended to November 20, 2021 and the government is proposing a further extension of the benefit until May 7, 2022.