On Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a $27 billion package aimed at supporting Canadians whose ability to work was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s an explanation of what those services will look like, and how you can apply for them.
Workers and businesses hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for part of the $82 billion aid package announced Wednesday by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which includes $27 billion in direct support for those struggling to find work or care for family members.
The package, now before Parliament, stands to adjust the rules on who qualifies for employment insurance (EI), and includes two emergency benefits for those who don’t.
The emergency benefits aren’t yet available, but the government has released guidelines on who can apply, and how much relief Canadians can expect. Here’s how they’ll work.
Who qualifies for EI?
Whether you qualify for EI will still depend on your specific situation, such as regional rate of employment, and the number of hours worked in the last 52 weeks. The government recommends people apply as soon as possible to find out if they qualify; waiting more than four weeks after your last day of work means you could lose access to those benefits.
To receive regular EI, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own, including lay-offs. EI sickness benefits inc