Losing a job can be a challenging experience, both emotionally and financially. However, in Canada, there are several options available for those who have been laid off to help them sustain themselves during the transition period. In this advisory, we will discuss some of the options available to laid-off individuals in Canada and how they can access these resources.
-
Discussions in 30 Seconds hide
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) is a federal program that provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, including those who have been laid off. To be eligible for EI, you must have worked a certain number of insurable hours in the past year and have been laid off due to a shortage of work or a lack of available work.
Employment Insurance Benefits: How It Can Help Work Permit Holders During COVID-19 Crisis?
If you are eligible for EI, you can receive regular benefits for up to 26 weeks, depending on the number of insurable hours you have worked and the unemployment rate in your region. You can apply for EI online or in person at a Service Canada office. To apply for EI, you will need to provide your social insurance number, employment history, and other personal information.
-
Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) was introduced in 2020 as a temporary program to support Canadians who had lost their jobs or experienced a significant reduction in income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has since ended, but individuals who were eligible for CERB may still be able to apply for EI or other benefits.
-
Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB)
The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) is a new program introduced by the Canadian government to support individuals who are not eligible for EI but have lost their jobs or experienced a significant reduction in income due to COVID-19. The program provides $300 per week for up to 26 weeks to eligible individuals. To be eligible for the CRB, you must have had employment and/or self-employment income of at least $5,000 in 2020 or 2021 and be available and looking for work.
-
Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)
The Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) is a program designed to support individuals who are unable to work because they need to care for a child under the age of 12 or a family member who requires supervised care due to COVID-19. The program provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks to eligible individuals. To be eligible for the CRCB, you must have had employment and/or self-employment income of at least $5,000 in 2020 or 2021 and be unable to work because you are caring for a child or family member.
-
Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)
The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) is a program designed to support individuals who are unable to work because they are sick or must self-isolate due to COVID-19. The program provides $500 per week for up to four weeks to eligible individuals. To be eligible for the CRSB, you must have had employment and/or self-employment income of at least $5,000 in 2020 or 2021 and be unable to work because you are sick or must self-isolate.
Consider cutting expenses and managing your finances: If you are experiencing financial hardship, it may be helpful to review your budget and cut back on unnecessary expenses. You can also seek advice from a financial advisor or credit counsellor to help you manage your debt and develop a plan for the future.
-
Provincial and Territorial Support Programs
In addition to federal support programs, many provinces and territories in Canada offer their own support programs for laid-off individuals. These programs may include financial assistance, job training, and other support services. To find out what programs are available in your province or territory, visit the website of your provincial or territorial government.
-
Job Search and Training Programs
If you have been laid off, you may want to consider participating in job search and training programs to improve your skills and increase chances of getting employed elsewhere soon and protibaly.
It’s important to remember that being laid off can be a challenging and stressful experience, but there are resources available to help you during this time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to organizations and agencies for assistance and support.