The Canada Emergency Response Benefit, or CERB, has come to an end, leaving many wondering what happens next.
CERB was established in mid-March for those who suddenly found themselves without an income due to job loss and lockdown measures.
Nearly 9-million Canadians received the benefit, which has paid out approximately $80-billion. It helped to keep the wolf from the door for many, ensuring that people had access to basic needs.
People still collecting CERB are switching to a new system under Employment Insurance. The federal government says about 2.8-million Canadians will switch to regular EI benefits.
Those claiming EI benefits for job loss will be eligible for at least 26 weeks, while those returning to EI will be able to benefit from working while on claim rules.
Those who were still receiving CERB, and who are eligible for EI, will be automatically transferred. Service Canada will contact all EI clients to confirm whether they need to apply, or are being transitioned automatically.
Service Canada has nearly doubled the number of specialized EI call centre agents to handle the load.
Those switching to EI from CERB effective Sunday, September 27 will be eligible for their first EI payment as of October 11. Over 80 per cent of eligible Canadians are expected to receive their payment by October 14.
