The CERB will be extended again for another 4 weeks, bringing it’s total benefits weeks to 32 weeks (currently still 28 weeks since last update).
If you are currently receiving CERB through Canada Revenue Agency directly, you will have to apply to EI through Canada.ca website when you have reached the end of your CERB entitlements. However, if you are receiving CERB through Service Canada Employment Insurance program, your CERB will automatically roll over to EI as long as there is a ROE on file. If your ROE has still not yet submitted and accepted by EI processing office, your EI claim will not be established automatically. You will have to re-apply again.
The 1 week waiting period will be waived if you are transitioning from CERB to EI.
Since the beginning of August 2020, the government has announced a minimum of 13.1% of unemployment rate across Canada. This translate to all claimants who wish to apply to Regular EI benefits to only require the minimum of 420 insurable hours to qualify and will receive a minimum of 26 weeks benefits (max 45 weeks). Special EI benefits hours (600hrs) still remains.Â
One time insurable hours credit (bonus hours)
As of September 27, 2020, EI claimants who are transitioning from CERB to EI will be provided with extra insurable hours credits.
300 hours for Regular EI
480 hours for Special EI
This is a one time credit that is applicable retroactively to March 15th, 2020. This means if you had only accumulated 130 hours before the pandemic layoff, you may now qualify for Regular EI benefits because you have the added insurable hours credit (130hrs + 300hrs). Same rule applies to Special Benefits.
If you are unable to qualify for EI after CERB. You may visit Canada Revenue Agency website to find out more about other benefits you may potentially qualified under CRA programs.
Canada Recovery Benefit / Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit / Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit