GUIDE: Accessing the Canada Emergency Response Benefit

Applications for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) are now open. The CERB supports Canadians by providing financial support to employed and self-employed people who are directly affected by COVID-19.

The benefit provides a payment of $2,000 for a 4-week period (the same as $500 a week) for up to 16 weeks.

Do I qualify?

There are certain requirements to apply for CERB. Use the flowchart below to find out if you qualify. You can also click here to check out the eligibility requirements on the Canadian government website and complete a short questionnaire to find out if you’re eligible.

CERB Flowchat

How do I apply?

Applications for CERB are now open. You can apply online or by phone. Click here to visit the CERB application site. To help manage the number of applications, the government has set up specific days for you to apply according to your month of birth. Please use the following guidelines when applying:

 

If you were born in: Apply for CERB on: Your best day to apply
January, February or March Mondays April 6
April, May, or June Tuesday April 7
July, August, or September Wednesdays April 8
October, November, or December Thursday April 9
Any month Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

 
 
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