Federal COVID-19 Benefits Program Portal Opens Today: Here’s How to Apply

If you have already applied for EI after March 15th, you do NOT need to apply for this benefit.  If you have NOT applied for EI and your birthday is between January and March, you should apply today. If your birthday is April to June, please apply tomorrow. If your birthday is July to September, please apply on Wednesday. If your birthday is October to December please apply on Thursday. Apply here!

Applicants who set up direct deposit are expected to receive a first payment within three to five days. Those who use mail should receive a first payment within 10 days. Payment is $2,000 a month for up to four months.

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.