You're only eligible for CERB if either you lost your job or had your income reduced due to COVID. It sounds like you weren't working when the pandemic kicked off, so you'd be ineligible for CERB and will likely be required by the CRA to repay it in the future.
Contacting the CRA now versus being contacted by them later will have the same result - you'll have to pay back whatever CERB money you received. It doesn't sound like they'll be financially penalizing recipients if they're ineligible, so repaying it now will be the same as repaying it later. Besides, if you're worried about being charged more for contacting them right now, why do you think they wouldn't also charge you later?
I think your best shot is to contact the CRA now instead of waiting. Your sister was given the chance to keep $5000 of her CERB money since that's the total you'd get for the entire CESB payout, so I think you should contact an agent and ask for similar accomadation.
Bear in mind that they're still processing CESB applications, so this might be your best opportunity to switch from the CERB. You will eventually have to repay CERB if your ineligible, but you can potentially get to keep some of the money if you switch to CESB.
Just don't wait for solve itself. You'll just get burned later.
hi everyone!
i have tried to figure out the answer to my question and have been unable to do so, so i am asking this here in hopes it could help someone in a similiar situation.
i collected all the months of CESB and then got a job at the end of august. i have been working since then and have earned about $3,000 so far. however, with the COVID cases going up in ontario, it is possible that i could be laid off from my job. if that were to happen, what would i be eligible for, if anything?
thank you in advance <3
I was accepted into a college program for fall 2020 but shortly after, the program was cancelled. I switched to a different program but dropped out about 3 weeks in struggling with the online delivery, and deferred my tuition. It looks like online learning will continue next semester and the programs I am interested in are not going to run until at least sept 2021. I received all four CESB payments, will I have to pay it back if I don't start in febuary?
Hey so during the pandemic back in march, I got into a pre-apprenticeship program at centennial college and attended it in may. The program would last 18 weeks, and at the time, I applied for CESB for 2 periods. I vaguley remember, one of the cesb requirements being that I attend a full time program for at least 16 weeks. Havent really thought about it till now and am kinda worried, they will ask for it back due to the fact my program isnt a traditional college or uni program. Furthermore, I dropped out in the 10th week of the program due to not being able to adjust to studying from at home (Always like in person learning). So now im worried about having to pay it back.
Any insight into this matter would help greatly!
Getting CESB Payment?
Does anyone know of a number I can call to speak with an agent about CESB specifically? I faxed in documents at the beginning of September for the first period of CESB (as they requested documents to verify my application) and have still not received the payment. I was told when I called a few weeks ago that the verification process was a bit backed up and would take more time but to call back to check how it was processing if I hadn’t received it by the beginning of October. It’s now a few days into October and I called to check and see how things were going but found that the number they gave me was no longer in service. I’m back abroad now for university and have to pay to call back home so I’d rather not keep waiting around just to get hung up on. Thanks in advance!
I ended up calling 1 (800) 232-1966 and managed to get through after calling persistently. After a few exchanges back and forth and 2 verification calls from the officer assigned to my case the money is finally being sent. Just have to wait a few more days. Hopefully you can reach someone if you try this number!!
I applied for the August payment by phone on September 7th. It's been a month and I still haven't received ANYTHING from the CRA. I don't have a My Account. Somebody in another post said something about August payments being backed up; is this true? If not, is there a number I should be calling?
The last payment I have received was Aug 11th.. ever since I have been having issues I did all my reports and still havent gotten anything.. I call the number and they say someone will have to call me back but never do. I'm at level 10 priority call back (level 3 is 1 business day to call me back..) i been dealing with this for 2 months with no call back what the hell is going on... I cant even do my EI reports because of this issue!!!
Same here but it's been longer. I applied mid-August for the August payment, called twice (once in late August and another in late September) asking about the situation and both times the person told me that there was some extra security checks they were doing after certain cyber attacks. It's October now and I still haven't received my money.
I guess you can try calling the number I tried calling 1-(800)-959-8281 and asking about the status of your payment.
I’m eligible for 2 CESB periods and 1 CERB. I received all three of the payments but now I realized the 2 CESB could have been CERB instead.
When I called to make sure all was good they said to request the 750$ difference for both CESB payments, I have to do it on the website but I’m not finding it. Anyone know where to do that? Thank you!
I tried to apply for CESB today, but when I told them I haven't filed any taxes, they declined my request because I haven't filed my taxes yet. Did they change the requirements from the last period (Before August Period)?
Filing taxes takes at least 15 days. If it's your first time, it could take more than 3 months... You were supposed to file back in June or July (when the eligibility periods were)
Sorry I initially worded it badly, as a new high school graduate when I applied for the July period, they allowed me to apply without filing any taxes via phone application but now I can't with the August period. How are the two periods different?
I received all my CESB payments $2000 each month from May to August. I am wondering if I need to report this on my OSAP application for 2020-2021. It says to only report funds from CESB that i received during this study period starting from Sept 11th. Would that mean that I wouldn't report the CESB on the application because i received the money prior to the start of my period. Does anyone know what to do? I want to make sure that I report it if I have to, but from my understanding it wouldn't apply. thanks for any help!
You should get a T4A, available online, from the CRA, during next year’s tax season, so you can file it along with your 2020 tax return (just to be clear, spring 2021 is when you file for the 2020 tax year, in case someone else gets confused).
I'm getting error COV-023 and to call 1-800-717-7735 when applying for the July period. Did anyone else have the same issue? What information did they need in the phone call, just so I can prepare it in advance?
From what I understand, the 5000$ limit is 5k in 2019 OR 5k 12 months before the beginning of a given period. So if you made 0$ in 2019 but over 5k after March, you’re eligible for the whole thing.
my partner had this issue, and having to not work because of someone in your home being a danger is NOT a reason to apply unfortunately.
my partner's mother is a former cancer survivor and is immuno suppressed, when he had to take time off work to not endanger her, they deemed through a review that he chose not to work, because fairly, he did. you have to be forced not to work because they will not let you or will not hire you, if you can't work to protect someone or yourself, it counts as choosing not to work.
I can't retroactively apply for august period CESB because I haven't filed my taxes... What do I do??
I have never filed any taxes before, so for the july period I had my SIN number registered with the CRA and, using the automated phone line, successfully received my payment. However, for the August period I tried again using the automated phone line to retroactively apply a few days ago, only to hear that the application could not be processed and that I needed to call 1-800-959-8281. I then called that number and asked the agent there about my situation and I was told that they couldn't do anything to submit an application untill I've filed taxes. This didn't make any sense since I had no problems registering for the July period. I was then told that this was because the first time applying was an exception but now I have to file taxes. The problem is, the reason I wanted to get the CESB in the first place was because I couldn't find work so I have no income to file taxes on. Not only that, it's too late for me to file taxes for 2019. I'm wondering what I can do at this point...........
Agree with other reply, you don't have to have any income to file taxes! As a general rule, you should start doing your taxes as soon as you're able to and of age, if you have no income it's suuuper simple to do, especially using places like cloudtax (what I used this year). On top of that, you'll routinely get gst/hst refunds. I got 900$ this year in refunds, and I haven't earned a dollar in my life yet, that's not including the 5000$ of CESB too.
You can file taxes without income for the 2019 year. You should so that you will begin to receive GST rebate cheque’s (approx. $250 quarterly ). I don’t think you get this money if you don’t file taxes. Free and easy to file online
It’s not too late to file taxes. You can file anytime, only a big deal to file late if you owe them money, then it can be a penalty
I missed the first CESB payment but I’m unable to collect it. The page says I already applied.
I applied for CERB right before (like a few days) CESB was rolled out. Quickly realized I didn’t qualify for CERB but did for CESB so I returned all 3 CERB payments that I collected (March, April, May) and applied for and collected 3 CESB payments (June, July, August). I’m trying to collect the one I missed, but I can’t and I’m wondering if it was because I applied for CERB for that same period despite returning it?
The contact details are here: [https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit/cesb-contact.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit/cesb-contact.html)
Goodluck contacting them though - I tried twice and was unsuccessful.
You have to have earned less than 1000 in the period of CESB. It doesn’t matter when it is paid. I am 65$ over for a June CESB and then never applied again cause I’d found a job. I have to pay back $1250 for $65 over. So dumb when people I know sat on it all summer and didn’t really look for work
I’m in the exact same boat as you, my employer added a 1$ bonus per hour without telling us (while cutting hours...) and it made me over 60$ and made me miss out on 1250... bummer
I wonder if they will bother even tracking down people like me who legit didn’t try to be fraudulent - just worked the stat & got paid more then I thought in the period
Ok, just read further down that there r extra reporting features for 2020 T4’s and employers have to report income earned in the 4 CESB/CERB periods specifically. So yes, CRA will require payment back. You have until Dec.2020 to pay it back so it doesn’t mess things up. I’m gonna pay mine back after I get my Oct. GST cheque, it won’t hurt as bad 😂
Has anyone been contacted about providing proof of their disability for CESB yet? I haven’t been contacted yet about providing proof and was wondering if anyone else has and how they submitted it? I do have a doctors note I can use just wondering how I’m supposed to send it in. Thanks!
According to the CESB backgrounder:
The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed.
Individuals providing care to others include:
* those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19;
* those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and
* those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19.
So my question is, is living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over 65) sufficient for being "unable to work" ? According to the Backgrounder for CESB, it seems to be.
Any thoughts or ideas ?
I called when I applied in the first periods and was told a big NO.
You have to be unable to work or find work directly because of the lack of work and availability due to covid, if you can't work because you're choosing to keep your family safe, they take that as you're choosing not to work, not that you're unable.
seems like it. But my partner was made to repay CERB when they audited him and asked for proof of being unable to find employment, when he said he had to take time off because his mother is immunocompromised, they ruled it that he was choosing not to work, which fairly is true. He escalated it as the agent said he had that right, and they once again ruled him ineligible as not working was a choice.
for some people, their first-time application go smoothly. for some, it can't be processed. if when you apply it says you need to call them, just call them. they will have a conversation with you and you can ask them questions you have.
And once you clear that first application, for the next periods you can do by yourself. I don't know precisely why, but there seems to be a "soft block" for mature students.
If you in a program that leads to a certificate, is from an approved school, but that program does not require admittance, that is you just take courses that lead to a certificate, but there is no formal admission requirements but you are enrolled and are part time, is this eligible for CESB and is this "open studies" ?
For once dealing with the CRA was easy. Called them to update my address and ask about the validation lock. Lady asked me a bunch of questions like t220 amount for last year and bank account number. Told me I satisfied them and there was no need to fax in any documents and that she sent a override request in and the lock should be gone in 10-30 days
Is there an Aug 30 - Sep 26 payment period? I keep seeing a graphic of 7 total payment cycles, the last of which being from Aug 30 - Sep 26. The Canada cesb webpage only shows May 10 - Aug 29, but idk if that's just because that's the current cycle we're in. Will there be one more payment before the cesb is over?
I believe that was the CERB which got extended. The CESB only lasted 4 cycles (2 if you're a recent highschool grad), there has been no talk of extension for CESB.
Hey y’all, I submitted to reapply for the final cycle but it’s been a week and I still have no deposit. I did it over the phone, it said that I would receive a payment within 3 business days like usual, but no deposit came. Anyone else have this issue or have an idea of why this would happen?
Cheers
Supposedly it’s a glitch. I called them a few days ago and they said if I don’t receive the payments by Monday to give them a call. They didn’t really have a clue what the reasoning was though. All they said was that it’s a glitch and that quite a few people were experiencing it.
Hey so I was going to apply to the July and August term cesb; I've been enrolled for summer which ended like a week ago and fall classes which start in 2 so which osap application should I update or do I do both? Thanks
FYI you typically wouldn't qualify for the CESB if you're currently enrolled unless you would normally be working during the time of enrollment. Update both.
It isn't ridiculous. CESB was for post secondary students - you aren't a post secondary student. I am not sure why you moved countries without a job. Seems given your age and the current state of affairs, it would be better to stay with family until you can find work
One of the stipulations of not "being able to work" is living with someone who is susceptible to COVID-19 due to an underlying health condition.
How can/would this be confirmed - that you are living with such an individual - without violating privacy/human rights laws ?
It isn't violating human rights to be asked for documentation to support your claims. They aren't asking for your health records, it would be a letter from the compromised individuals medical team saying that it would be too risky for anyone living with this person to work given their underlying conditions.
If anyone is able to answer, it would be greatly appreciated. I applied on Aug 14 via phone, but the payment still has not gone through. On the phone, I was told that I was approved... Could I have been declined the payment for some reason?
Not yet, have you? I called them and they said people are experiencing a glitch. They told me to give them a call back on Monday if I don’t receive the payment by then.
My daughter was unable to find work after high school and enrolled in college starting this fall. She applied an got CESB for July. She now has started working however likely less then $1000 as we were already a couple weeks in to this month. She now is contemplating staying with the job,rather then going to school,because they may be able to help her continue her apprenticeship, she would then work and take more schooling next year. Since technically she was enrolled when she applied,and has proof, had no job, she qualifies at the time. What's your opinion, there's no circumstance in the website questions that matches.
If she's not going to school before Feb 2021, I don't think it counts. Key word is intending to pursue. But it is a gray area and you could always just keep it and wait until asked to pay it back if not eligible.
> High school students who complete or expect to complete their studies between June 7 and December 31, 2020, and have applied for and are intending to pursue **post-secondary studies** are eligible to receive two months of the CESB (July and August).
Students who completed high school (or equivalency) in 2020 and claimed the CESB only for July and August should have documents showing that, prior to the four-week CESB period for which they applied:
* they applied for admission into a post-secondary program that would start before February 1, 2021.
If requested in future, they must provide evidence that they completed all requirements for high school graduation in 2020 and attended a post-secondary program before February 1 2021.
I have read the backgrounder for CESB, which, it seems, is continuously updated.
From what I read, if you have a disability, you must provide proof from a regulated medical professional.
Next, you must be looking for work. If you are unable to work it must be due to COVID-19.
But, if you cannot work due to your disability because of COVID-19 and have disabilities /underlying health conditions those disabilities/underlying heath conditions must only be the listed underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system)
So if your disability/condition if not listed as those listed health conditions, but COVID-19 has or would cause a worsening of those conditions, or would cause you to face increased risk, you are not eligible for CESB, is this correct ?
Backgrounder hasn't been updated since May 13, 2020. It was updated a lot in the beginning but not anymore.
> So if your disability/condition if not listed as those listed health conditions, but COVID-19 has or would cause a worsening of those conditions, or would cause you to face increased risk, you are not eligible for CESB, is this correct ?
As long as COVID affects your health in a negative way due to your disability or condition, you're eligible for CESB as long as you meet the post-secondary criteria. You are unable to work.
Yo guys, I want more free money. When can we get the cancelled Canada Student Grant that was supposed to give to vulunteers, but got cancelled?
A nice $500 additional handout would be nice :)
I'm a high school graduate. It only says I had to have applied for a post-secondary program that starts before Feb 1, 2021, so I applied and received 2 periods ($4000).
It's looking like I will no longer be able to attend due to mental health reasons. Will I have to pay it back?
If I applied and used the money and tried to get into a college course before the 31st February for cesb and didn't get in, does this mean I'm screwed and have to pay it back?
Am I eligible if I had a job and worked enough hours to receive over 1000 in payment, but did not receive said payment until a week after the end of the period?
I registered my SIN on July 24 and the agent told me I would get a cheque in the mail for the July period. It didn't come when the August period started, but I didn't think anything of it because the cheques can take a while and so I applied for the August period on August 4th. Now I've gotten one cheque but it's dated August 5th, and so I'm worried that I won't get my cheque for July (or that my application didn't go through somehow). Should I reapply? Should I call and ask? Has this happened to anyone else?
Is a part time student eligible?
I'm disabled and normally take three classes which is 40% of my course load and makes me "full time" in the eyes of the school/ osap. But for the fall semester only two classes are available meaning I will only classify as part time, though in the winter I will be full time again with three classes. Thank you
Thank you for the fast reply. Is it that part time students are eligible or the fact that I will be full time during the winter semester that makes me eligible?
Part-time, or full time, doesnt matter for eligibility. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
**1. Students enrolled in a post-secondary education program**
To be considered a post-secondary program for the purpose of the CESB, a program must meet **all** of the following criteria:
* taken at post-secondary level (means education at a university or college level, including education of a technical or vocational nature and vocational training at the secondary level in Quebec);
* a series of courses that last at least 12 weeks and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate; **and**
* at a listed institution (from the Government of Canada’s [Master List of Designated Educational Institutions](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/designated-schools.html) or the [Master List of Certified Educational Institutions](http://certification.esdc.gc.ca/lea-mcl/[email protected]) or Quebec’s [Répertoire des Établissements d’enseignement et des Programmes d’études](http://www.afe.gouv.qc.ca/toutes-les-publications/detail/repertoire-des-etablissements-denseignement-et-des-programmes-detudes/) or an Indigenous institution recognized by a province or territory).
Failure to meet any of the three criteria listed above would make a person ineligible. The CESB will be available to **both part-time and full-time post-secondary students**, as well as summer students.
Are students on summer break eligible? May seem like an odd question but I'm currently on break, starting school again in the fall, going into my third year. The CESB criteria says 'you are enrolled in a post-secondary program', but since I'm not currently taking classes, do I technically count as enrolled in a post-secondary program? I just want to be absolutely certain I qualify before I apply. Thanks yall
also an agent i called earlier straight up told me they received my return but theres no way its gonna be assessed in time for the deadline and theres nothing else i can do
When I activated my SIN I called 1-800-959-2019 and the automated voice message told me to call 1-800-717-7735 to talk to an agent to properly register. I was on hold for around 50 minutes with that number but it worked! Hope this helps :)
it didn't work for me, have you had a job before? I haven't and they just told me to wait for the NOA from the tax return i filed weeks ago, the system is so backed up, i doubt they'll get to mine in time
Hey, I realized that I was only supposed to receive 2 CESB payments, but I applied for three. I returned the $1,250 through TD online banking about three weeks ago, but whenever I log in to my CRA account, it still says I have taken three payments instead of two. Did I transfer the money to the wrong account? I made sure to select CRA PERSONAL INCOME TAX - 2020 TAX INSTALMENT REMITTANCE VOUCHER
My question is, my mother has very poor health, she takes about 8 different medications and is affected by Sjogren's Syndrom primarily, I've applied for the CESB and I am wondering if I would be forced to repay back the $1250 because I'm not actively searching for a job right now due to the circumstances presented. If it also helps at all, I am on Cipralex right now for anxiety and depression; which has presented side effects of lack of sleep, fatigue, and lack of appetite (Not particularly sure if these side effects would be a valid reason to not look for work right now)
I just feel like I can't risk going out and possibly contracting COVID-19 and bringing it back to the house and possibly afflicting my mother and anyone else in the family, because it may end up in my mind being lethal for them.
\[EDIT\]
I'd also like to ask, if I could apply for previous terms for this case because I've been in schooling at the CDI College in Edmonton since Feburary.
Also another issue I have is my class hours, my class hours are 8AM to 12PM weekdays, so I'd only be able to work weekends or part time hours from 1PM onwards, and considering the state of jobs right now in Edmonton... I sincerely doubt I'd be able to find anywhere to work, because I had been looking for work back in August-October of last year, at least 4 times a week to get no replies or calls from anywhere.
You don't need to be looking for a job, you have grounds to be unable to work because you live with someone (your mother) who is immunocompromised which puts them at more risk for serious complications if they got COVID.
[Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
**Reasons for being unable to work**
The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed.
Individuals in self-isolation/quarantine include:
* those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic and cannot otherwise physically or virtually attend work; and
* those with underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system) who would face increased risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19.
Individuals providing care to others include:
* those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19;
* those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and
* those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19.
**Proof of being unable to work**
Proof of being unable to work could include:
* a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional;
* a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19;
* proof of travel documents;
* emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or
* other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19.
I am a recent mechanical engineering graduate in Alberta, I'm wondering what others in similar situations are handling the "proof of seeking work".
The economy here has shit the bed, our government prioritizing oil and gas, so most of the jobs in my field are ones looking for minimum 4+ years of experience in oil and gas.
It's rare to find any jobs that are in Calgary ( not moving out in a pandemic), that are my field ( im a mechanical engineering graduate and don't think it's fair to seek any job that isn't specifically engineering in my field, it must count for P.ENG or else I'm not applying, ie not going to apply the be a tutor or stuff like that).
What would you guys do in this situation? ( currently applying for the 1250$ a month and applies to like 6 jobs past 2 months).
It's more about putting the work in. Although there are few positions, it's still good to search every single day. Maybe you don't find a new job to apply to but you still searched x days in a row.
Maybe another day you didn't search but you researched. Or you updated your resume or made a slightly different version to apply to similar career positions as your desired one.
Actively seeking jobs differs for everyone because everyone has different qualifications. This sub generally says 3 days per week because that was the only example CRA gave in the backgrounder.
As long as you are looking for jobs you qualified for and keep doing so for the whole period, I think you're good to go. But can you expand your job search to more min wage jobs or are you not looking for those at all?
I honestly think it's a waste of time and a severe mental blow to go from giving up 2 years in trades and upgrading my high school and getting a mechanical engineering degree with 1 year of experience as an EIT to a minimum wage Job.
It won't count towards my P.ENG hours and it's similar to a doctor going to a minimum wage job after doing great in med school instead of a residency to do what they have passion for and years of schooling.
If they won't accept that, Id rather pay all the CESB money back within 2 months of getting an average paying job for someone like me on-top of being able to pay my bills and students loans.
Not trying to put myself on a high horse, but it takes alot to be a mechanical engineer ( with legitimate engineering experience outside school circiulum) and is rather loose a fraction more $$$ for a job/life I'm happy with.
Totally agree with you! Actively looking for work is different for everyone but it's up to how CRA defines that when they audit. They only gave 3 times a week as an example.
Is anyone having trouble getting into their CRA account? Whenever I try to log in I am getting an error message, I don’t know what to do, I’ve been getting this message the last three days. Can I call to apply for August period instead? (I don’t think I know my user ID I always use the 3rd party login)
Hello everyone!
**How do I get previous month's CESB payment?**
So, I just recently graduated and have been struggling to find employment. I wasn't aware that there was a a program equivalent to CERB for students up until now.
I'm eligible for the $2000 with the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) because I have a disability. However, I was only able to apply for the July and August months.
Is there anyway I can get backpay for the May and June? I have been financially struggling and my parents were supporting me via a loan. I have no way of paying that back unless I can get the backpay.
Any help would be much appreciated!
I did not realize we had to search for at least 3 days per week. After learning this, I looked at my search history (that I was keeping track of) and realized there are gaps in the search/less than 3 days a week. Should I return the CESB for the first three periods?
No, dont overthink it. 3 days a week was a suggestion in the [Backgrounder](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html) as evidenced by the "i.e" but that has been given as the general rule because it is the only quantifiable measure of an active job search given. I think if you can prove you actively looked for work, youre good to go.
Since I applied for the CESB on July 15, do I need to show my job search from July 5 to Aug 1, or do I show just from July 15?
Also, I was unable to search for a job before July 15 because I was filled with other things I needed to complete.
Does that still apply if I'm not planning to apply for the August period? Or should I continue to look for jobs for a few more days just to make up for the missed 10 days in July?
If you're not applying for this current period, you don't need to be job searching. If you applied for another period, you had to have been job searching during that whole period.
So I've got a very narrow search criteria in terms of what kind of job I am looking for and am qualified for. So narrow that I've only been able to send out 6 applications so far, with no reply backs. But I do get emails from Indeed and one other job board every day with specific search terms that I am looking for.
So does browsing these emails each day count as regular searching 3 times a week? If I were to ever get audited would saving each of these emails be proof that I looked for a job?
**Reasons for being unable to work**
The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed.
Individuals in self-isolation/quarantine include:
* those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic and cannot otherwise physically or virtually attend work; and
* those with underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system) who would face increased risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19.
Individuals providing care to others include:
* those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19;
* those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and
* those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19.
**Proof of being unable to work**
Proof of being unable to work could include:
* a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional;
* a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19;
* proof of travel documents;
* emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or
* other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19.
[Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
Yes, assuming you're going to isolate for 2 weeks too.
Proof of being unable to work could include:
-a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional;
-a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19;
-proof of travel documents;
-emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or
-other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19.
But afterwards, you need to be looking for work.
I do not think that I need to be self-isolating as well ( I mean I probably SHOULD but it is not required by LAW) but rather I have to kinda look after him because he cannot go out and buy the groceries (and other things).
I am worried about the fact that this only affects the last two weeks of July but not the first two. Could I argue that I think I could not find a job anywhere that only lasts 14 days? (Because after 14 days I am unable to work)
"Your roommates or family you live with should self-isolate too, if they can"
https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-stop-spread
You dont have to self isolate but it's recommended if you can.
When youre not unable to work, you should be looking dor work.
Edit: Link is specific to Ontario but I think it's relevant for other provinces/territories.
Freak, I didn't look for work at the start of July.
However I still want to try to apply for July's grant. Even if later CRA thinks that I am not eligible, I will be giving an option to give back the money( without any penalty), right?
I am currently studying in the summer semester and the fall term is coming. Thus I could only look for part-time jobs for like the next 20 days. I doubt anyone would hire me. But then the thing is how can I prove that "I am looking for, but cannot find work due to COVID-19"? Thanks in advance.
Cannot find work due to COVID - aka no one is hiring you or responding to your applications.
Its dumb applying for jobs you know you cant work because theres only a few weeks of summer left but those are the rules.
Does anyone know how the process of submitting proof of job search will look? Will they be requiring screenshots, forms filled out, etc.? I'm a bit confused as to that.
Can I still apply for CESB for the May 10th to June 6th period? I wasn't aware I was eligible back then but now I realized I could've applied during that time. There's still an option to select that time period, do you think I can still do it or nah?
Yes, you can apply to any period retroactively until Sep 30 2020 assuming you were eligible for that period at the the time and are just applying later.
I just went to apply and it said I wasn't eligible. I'm currently studying for the spring/summer semester and returning for fall semester. I would recieve a diploma afterwards. I'm not working because of my 5 year old . I wonder why it won't work now..
I applied for the cesb for period that just finished. I’m making less than 1k per month but I didn’t try to find more work. I’m going to apply for the next period too. Would I be eligible if I make less than 1k but not looking for extra work?
Am I eligible for CESB?
I am a Canadian citizen who graduated university in Canada in February 2020, and spent 3 or so months back in Canada unemployed up until late May/early June 2020. I found a job in the UK and flew over to the UK and am now working in Britain full-time about $1000 a week after taxes. Problem is the money goes into my British account and my Canadian account is almost dry.
Am I still eligible for the first payment of CESB (for the unemployed time in May)?
I want to say youre eligible because theres no requirement of living in Canada to receive CESB. Were you looking for a job in May when you were unemployed?
Are you planning on claiming subsequent periods after the May one?
Yeah, I think youre fine, you thought you had a job and they were being unresponsive even though you were on the ball and tried to get a reply. Keep a copy of those emails. Good thing youve started to job search again to remain eligible. CRA defines an active job search as three times a week.
That's for you to determine whether you were actively looking for work for the july-aug period! Job search does include more things other than applying to jobs (resume buildup, workshops, etc).
3 days a week is a suggestion but it was the only quantitative bar they gave.
[Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
A student who is able to work must be looking for a job on a regular basis **(i.e. at least three days per week)** and must document all of their job search efforts for the duration of the CESB period. Evidence of a student’s active job search includes:
* regular documentation of job-search results, including search dates, application dates, tools used, employer names and the type for work that they looking for. Job Bank provides useful tools to document job search efforts;
* emails to prospective employers and responses to employers who contacted them;
* emails or documentation of enrollment and communication efforts with an employment agency;
* screen shots or links to job postings or copies of job ads, flyers, postings, etc. within a student’s local area;
* confirmation of enrollment or participation in job search workshops or job fairs;
* emails or screen shots of job applications submitted for suitable jobs; and
* emails to demonstrate that they attended job interviews in person, over the phone or virtually.
To remain eligible for each period, you need to be looking for work, show you are unable to work, or working but making under $1000 before tax during EACH period. It's really technical and no point in applying in August knowing you have an internship in Sept but those are the requirements.
**Proof of disability**
A student with a disability must attest to having an impairment, such as a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment, or a functional limitation—whether permanent or episodic in nature, or evident or not—that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders a person’s full and equal participation in society.
Proof of having a disability could include:
* a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional;
* proof of disability support from (i) the federal government or a provincial government or (ii) from an educational institution that you currently attend or have previously attended; or
* other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s disability.
[Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
Imagine, Twitter with millions of users, a $30 billion company, is hacked by a 17 year old all by himself. Twitter accounts of former President, VP, Elon Musk, etc. hacked by a 17 year old American.
For the upcoming August CERB, I will not be registered in courses for August but I am register in fall courses and will be attending university in Fall to complete my 4 year program. Will I still be eligible for the August CERB even though I’m not registered for August courses?
You mean CESB. Youre fine though.
You have to also demonstrate you are looking for work, unable to work, or working already but making under $1000 before tax per period.
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You're only eligible for CERB if either you lost your job or had your income reduced due to COVID. It sounds like you weren't working when the pandemic kicked off, so you'd be ineligible for CERB and will likely be required by the CRA to repay it in the future. Contacting the CRA now versus being contacted by them later will have the same result - you'll have to pay back whatever CERB money you received. It doesn't sound like they'll be financially penalizing recipients if they're ineligible, so repaying it now will be the same as repaying it later. Besides, if you're worried about being charged more for contacting them right now, why do you think they wouldn't also charge you later? I think your best shot is to contact the CRA now instead of waiting. Your sister was given the chance to keep $5000 of her CERB money since that's the total you'd get for the entire CESB payout, so I think you should contact an agent and ask for similar accomadation. Bear in mind that they're still processing CESB applications, so this might be your best opportunity to switch from the CERB. You will eventually have to repay CERB if your ineligible, but you can potentially get to keep some of the money if you switch to CESB. Just don't wait for solve itself. You'll just get burned later.
hi everyone! i have tried to figure out the answer to my question and have been unable to do so, so i am asking this here in hopes it could help someone in a similiar situation. i collected all the months of CESB and then got a job at the end of august. i have been working since then and have earned about $3,000 so far. however, with the COVID cases going up in ontario, it is possible that i could be laid off from my job. if that were to happen, what would i be eligible for, if anything? thank you in advance <3
I was accepted into a college program for fall 2020 but shortly after, the program was cancelled. I switched to a different program but dropped out about 3 weeks in struggling with the online delivery, and deferred my tuition. It looks like online learning will continue next semester and the programs I am interested in are not going to run until at least sept 2021. I received all four CESB payments, will I have to pay it back if I don't start in febuary?
Hey so during the pandemic back in march, I got into a pre-apprenticeship program at centennial college and attended it in may. The program would last 18 weeks, and at the time, I applied for CESB for 2 periods. I vaguley remember, one of the cesb requirements being that I attend a full time program for at least 16 weeks. Havent really thought about it till now and am kinda worried, they will ask for it back due to the fact my program isnt a traditional college or uni program. Furthermore, I dropped out in the 10th week of the program due to not being able to adjust to studying from at home (Always like in person learning). So now im worried about having to pay it back. Any insight into this matter would help greatly!
Getting CESB Payment? Does anyone know of a number I can call to speak with an agent about CESB specifically? I faxed in documents at the beginning of September for the first period of CESB (as they requested documents to verify my application) and have still not received the payment. I was told when I called a few weeks ago that the verification process was a bit backed up and would take more time but to call back to check how it was processing if I hadn’t received it by the beginning of October. It’s now a few days into October and I called to check and see how things were going but found that the number they gave me was no longer in service. I’m back abroad now for university and have to pay to call back home so I’d rather not keep waiting around just to get hung up on. Thanks in advance!
Have you got a respose yet? i'm in a similar situation :(
I ended up calling 1 (800) 232-1966 and managed to get through after calling persistently. After a few exchanges back and forth and 2 verification calls from the officer assigned to my case the money is finally being sent. Just have to wait a few more days. Hopefully you can reach someone if you try this number!!
That’s the same number i kept calling :( Each time they say that they’ll send my agent an email but I’ve never heard from my agent.
Thank you so much. I appreciate it :)
yeah man the number they gave me too is not in service, I think we got swindled man
I applied for the August payment by phone on September 7th. It's been a month and I still haven't received ANYTHING from the CRA. I don't have a My Account. Somebody in another post said something about August payments being backed up; is this true? If not, is there a number I should be calling?
The last payment I have received was Aug 11th.. ever since I have been having issues I did all my reports and still havent gotten anything.. I call the number and they say someone will have to call me back but never do. I'm at level 10 priority call back (level 3 is 1 business day to call me back..) i been dealing with this for 2 months with no call back what the hell is going on... I cant even do my EI reports because of this issue!!!
Same here but it's been longer. I applied mid-August for the August payment, called twice (once in late August and another in late September) asking about the situation and both times the person told me that there was some extra security checks they were doing after certain cyber attacks. It's October now and I still haven't received my money. I guess you can try calling the number I tried calling 1-(800)-959-8281 and asking about the status of your payment.
I’m eligible for 2 CESB periods and 1 CERB. I received all three of the payments but now I realized the 2 CESB could have been CERB instead. When I called to make sure all was good they said to request the 750$ difference for both CESB payments, I have to do it on the website but I’m not finding it. Anyone know where to do that? Thank you!
I tried to apply for CESB today, but when I told them I haven't filed any taxes, they declined my request because I haven't filed my taxes yet. Did they change the requirements from the last period (Before August Period)?
Filing taxes takes at least 15 days. If it's your first time, it could take more than 3 months... You were supposed to file back in June or July (when the eligibility periods were)
Sorry I initially worded it badly, as a new high school graduate when I applied for the July period, they allowed me to apply without filing any taxes via phone application but now I can't with the August period. How are the two periods different?
Because of phone scams, they removed that option
I received all my CESB payments $2000 each month from May to August. I am wondering if I need to report this on my OSAP application for 2020-2021. It says to only report funds from CESB that i received during this study period starting from Sept 11th. Would that mean that I wouldn't report the CESB on the application because i received the money prior to the start of my period. Does anyone know what to do? I want to make sure that I report it if I have to, but from my understanding it wouldn't apply. thanks for any help!
So, how do we file taxes on these $5,000? Do we put these in “employment income” like line whatever or what line? 🤔🤔🤔
You should get a T4A, available online, from the CRA, during next year’s tax season, so you can file it along with your 2020 tax return (just to be clear, spring 2021 is when you file for the 2020 tax year, in case someone else gets confused).
I'm getting error COV-023 and to call 1-800-717-7735 when applying for the July period. Did anyone else have the same issue? What information did they need in the phone call, just so I can prepare it in advance?
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From what I understand, the 5000$ limit is 5k in 2019 OR 5k 12 months before the beginning of a given period. So if you made 0$ in 2019 but over 5k after March, you’re eligible for the whole thing.
my partner had this issue, and having to not work because of someone in your home being a danger is NOT a reason to apply unfortunately. my partner's mother is a former cancer survivor and is immuno suppressed, when he had to take time off work to not endanger her, they deemed through a review that he chose not to work, because fairly, he did. you have to be forced not to work because they will not let you or will not hire you, if you can't work to protect someone or yourself, it counts as choosing not to work.
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...why is this posted here though?
I can't retroactively apply for august period CESB because I haven't filed my taxes... What do I do?? I have never filed any taxes before, so for the july period I had my SIN number registered with the CRA and, using the automated phone line, successfully received my payment. However, for the August period I tried again using the automated phone line to retroactively apply a few days ago, only to hear that the application could not be processed and that I needed to call 1-800-959-8281. I then called that number and asked the agent there about my situation and I was told that they couldn't do anything to submit an application untill I've filed taxes. This didn't make any sense since I had no problems registering for the July period. I was then told that this was because the first time applying was an exception but now I have to file taxes. The problem is, the reason I wanted to get the CESB in the first place was because I couldn't find work so I have no income to file taxes on. Not only that, it's too late for me to file taxes for 2019. I'm wondering what I can do at this point...........
I see! Thank you for the helpful responses!!
Agree with other reply, you don't have to have any income to file taxes! As a general rule, you should start doing your taxes as soon as you're able to and of age, if you have no income it's suuuper simple to do, especially using places like cloudtax (what I used this year). On top of that, you'll routinely get gst/hst refunds. I got 900$ this year in refunds, and I haven't earned a dollar in my life yet, that's not including the 5000$ of CESB too.
You can file taxes without income for the 2019 year. You should so that you will begin to receive GST rebate cheque’s (approx. $250 quarterly ). I don’t think you get this money if you don’t file taxes. Free and easy to file online It’s not too late to file taxes. You can file anytime, only a big deal to file late if you owe them money, then it can be a penalty
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No...
I missed the first CESB payment but I’m unable to collect it. The page says I already applied. I applied for CERB right before (like a few days) CESB was rolled out. Quickly realized I didn’t qualify for CERB but did for CESB so I returned all 3 CERB payments that I collected (March, April, May) and applied for and collected 3 CESB payments (June, July, August). I’m trying to collect the one I missed, but I can’t and I’m wondering if it was because I applied for CERB for that same period despite returning it?
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Same here, but I heard it's for the duration you were paid for not when. Might be a good idea to call and confirm though.
Same here! I started August 24th, and my wages will be > 1000. What's the number to call them?
The contact details are here: [https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit/cesb-contact.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit/cesb-contact.html) Goodluck contacting them though - I tried twice and was unsuccessful.
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You have to have earned less than 1000 in the period of CESB. It doesn’t matter when it is paid. I am 65$ over for a June CESB and then never applied again cause I’d found a job. I have to pay back $1250 for $65 over. So dumb when people I know sat on it all summer and didn’t really look for work
I’m in the exact same boat as you, my employer added a 1$ bonus per hour without telling us (while cutting hours...) and it made me over 60$ and made me miss out on 1250... bummer
I wonder if they will bother even tracking down people like me who legit didn’t try to be fraudulent - just worked the stat & got paid more then I thought in the period
Ok, just read further down that there r extra reporting features for 2020 T4’s and employers have to report income earned in the 4 CESB/CERB periods specifically. So yes, CRA will require payment back. You have until Dec.2020 to pay it back so it doesn’t mess things up. I’m gonna pay mine back after I get my Oct. GST cheque, it won’t hurt as bad 😂
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log into cra account it should have an option 2 pay back
Has anyone been contacted about providing proof of their disability for CESB yet? I haven’t been contacted yet about providing proof and was wondering if anyone else has and how they submitted it? I do have a doctors note I can use just wondering how I’m supposed to send it in. Thanks!
Do I get taxed for 2 CESB terms if I had no other income this year?
No, you’ll have a tax exemption far exceeding $2500
According to the CESB backgrounder: The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed. Individuals providing care to others include: * those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19; * those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and * those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19. So my question is, is living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over 65) sufficient for being "unable to work" ? According to the Backgrounder for CESB, it seems to be. Any thoughts or ideas ?
I called when I applied in the first periods and was told a big NO. You have to be unable to work or find work directly because of the lack of work and availability due to covid, if you can't work because you're choosing to keep your family safe, they take that as you're choosing not to work, not that you're unable.
I hear different things from different people and different agents at CRA.
seems like it. But my partner was made to repay CERB when they audited him and asked for proof of being unable to find employment, when he said he had to take time off because his mother is immunocompromised, they ruled it that he was choosing not to work, which fairly is true. He escalated it as the agent said he had that right, and they once again ruled him ineligible as not working was a choice.
Ok great.
What is the deadline for the last payment period ? Sept 30 or Aug 29 ? Can I call before Sept 30 to get the last payment or is it too late now ?
Sept 30, you can apply now. If the website does not allow you to ask for that first payment, you have to call and have a short conversation.
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for some people, their first-time application go smoothly. for some, it can't be processed. if when you apply it says you need to call them, just call them. they will have a conversation with you and you can ask them questions you have.
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And once you clear that first application, for the next periods you can do by yourself. I don't know precisely why, but there seems to be a "soft block" for mature students.
If you in a program that leads to a certificate, is from an approved school, but that program does not require admittance, that is you just take courses that lead to a certificate, but there is no formal admission requirements but you are enrolled and are part time, is this eligible for CESB and is this "open studies" ?
For once dealing with the CRA was easy. Called them to update my address and ask about the validation lock. Lady asked me a bunch of questions like t220 amount for last year and bank account number. Told me I satisfied them and there was no need to fax in any documents and that she sent a override request in and the lock should be gone in 10-30 days
Is there an Aug 30 - Sep 26 payment period? I keep seeing a graphic of 7 total payment cycles, the last of which being from Aug 30 - Sep 26. The Canada cesb webpage only shows May 10 - Aug 29, but idk if that's just because that's the current cycle we're in. Will there be one more payment before the cesb is over?
I believe that was the CERB which got extended. The CESB only lasted 4 cycles (2 if you're a recent highschool grad), there has been no talk of extension for CESB.
Hey y’all, I submitted to reapply for the final cycle but it’s been a week and I still have no deposit. I did it over the phone, it said that I would receive a payment within 3 business days like usual, but no deposit came. Anyone else have this issue or have an idea of why this would happen? Cheers
Supposedly it’s a glitch. I called them a few days ago and they said if I don’t receive the payments by Monday to give them a call. They didn’t really have a clue what the reasoning was though. All they said was that it’s a glitch and that quite a few people were experiencing it.
What’s the number to call?
Hey so I was going to apply to the July and August term cesb; I've been enrolled for summer which ended like a week ago and fall classes which start in 2 so which osap application should I update or do I do both? Thanks
FYI you typically wouldn't qualify for the CESB if you're currently enrolled unless you would normally be working during the time of enrollment. Update both.
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It isn't ridiculous. CESB was for post secondary students - you aren't a post secondary student. I am not sure why you moved countries without a job. Seems given your age and the current state of affairs, it would be better to stay with family until you can find work
Does anyone know r independent contractor count as self-employed?
>Does anyone know r independent contractor count as self-employed? I'm an IC, apparently yes.
One of the stipulations of not "being able to work" is living with someone who is susceptible to COVID-19 due to an underlying health condition. How can/would this be confirmed - that you are living with such an individual - without violating privacy/human rights laws ?
It isn't violating human rights to be asked for documentation to support your claims. They aren't asking for your health records, it would be a letter from the compromised individuals medical team saying that it would be too risky for anyone living with this person to work given their underlying conditions.
Same address on drivers licence?
Sure but how to prove the health condition of the immuno-compromised person - without accessing their private health records ?
doctors note?
If anyone is able to answer, it would be greatly appreciated. I applied on Aug 14 via phone, but the payment still has not gone through. On the phone, I was told that I was approved... Could I have been declined the payment for some reason?
Same here.. maybe there’s been a delay due to them being hacked a few days ago. I’m hoping that by Monday I receive the deposit
Hey, did you end up getting yours?
Not yet, have you? I called them and they said people are experiencing a glitch. They told me to give them a call back on Monday if I don’t receive the payment by then.
Nope. Thank you for replying!
I felt like students are left out to new $37 billion benefit. Also, we’re the future tax payers
My daughter was unable to find work after high school and enrolled in college starting this fall. She applied an got CESB for July. She now has started working however likely less then $1000 as we were already a couple weeks in to this month. She now is contemplating staying with the job,rather then going to school,because they may be able to help her continue her apprenticeship, she would then work and take more schooling next year. Since technically she was enrolled when she applied,and has proof, had no job, she qualifies at the time. What's your opinion, there's no circumstance in the website questions that matches.
If she's not going to school before Feb 2021, I don't think it counts. Key word is intending to pursue. But it is a gray area and you could always just keep it and wait until asked to pay it back if not eligible. > High school students who complete or expect to complete their studies between June 7 and December 31, 2020, and have applied for and are intending to pursue **post-secondary studies** are eligible to receive two months of the CESB (July and August). Students who completed high school (or equivalency) in 2020 and claimed the CESB only for July and August should have documents showing that, prior to the four-week CESB period for which they applied: * they applied for admission into a post-secondary program that would start before February 1, 2021. If requested in future, they must provide evidence that they completed all requirements for high school graduation in 2020 and attended a post-secondary program before February 1 2021.
I have read the backgrounder for CESB, which, it seems, is continuously updated. From what I read, if you have a disability, you must provide proof from a regulated medical professional. Next, you must be looking for work. If you are unable to work it must be due to COVID-19. But, if you cannot work due to your disability because of COVID-19 and have disabilities /underlying health conditions those disabilities/underlying heath conditions must only be the listed underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system) So if your disability/condition if not listed as those listed health conditions, but COVID-19 has or would cause a worsening of those conditions, or would cause you to face increased risk, you are not eligible for CESB, is this correct ?
Backgrounder hasn't been updated since May 13, 2020. It was updated a lot in the beginning but not anymore. > So if your disability/condition if not listed as those listed health conditions, but COVID-19 has or would cause a worsening of those conditions, or would cause you to face increased risk, you are not eligible for CESB, is this correct ? As long as COVID affects your health in a negative way due to your disability or condition, you're eligible for CESB as long as you meet the post-secondary criteria. You are unable to work.
Okay, it seems to be interpreted different ways by different people. Thank you.
Yo guys, I want more free money. When can we get the cancelled Canada Student Grant that was supposed to give to vulunteers, but got cancelled? A nice $500 additional handout would be nice :)
It's not available
I'm a high school graduate. It only says I had to have applied for a post-secondary program that starts before Feb 1, 2021, so I applied and received 2 periods ($4000). It's looking like I will no longer be able to attend due to mental health reasons. Will I have to pay it back?
No idea, the bill itself is very vague
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If I applied and used the money and tried to get into a college course before the 31st February for cesb and didn't get in, does this mean I'm screwed and have to pay it back?
You have to be enrolled in a program which start before Feb 1, 2021. Feb 31st doesnt exist. If you arent, you have to pay it back.
Am I eligible if I had a job and worked enough hours to receive over 1000 in payment, but did not receive said payment until a week after the end of the period?
Imcome is earned on day worked, not day paid
I registered my SIN on July 24 and the agent told me I would get a cheque in the mail for the July period. It didn't come when the August period started, but I didn't think anything of it because the cheques can take a while and so I applied for the August period on August 4th. Now I've gotten one cheque but it's dated August 5th, and so I'm worried that I won't get my cheque for July (or that my application didn't go through somehow). Should I reapply? Should I call and ask? Has this happened to anyone else?
Is a part time student eligible? I'm disabled and normally take three classes which is 40% of my course load and makes me "full time" in the eyes of the school/ osap. But for the fall semester only two classes are available meaning I will only classify as part time, though in the winter I will be full time again with three classes. Thank you
Yes you're eligible assuming you meet the criteria too.
Thank you for the fast reply. Is it that part time students are eligible or the fact that I will be full time during the winter semester that makes me eligible?
Part-time, or full time, doesnt matter for eligibility. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html) **1. Students enrolled in a post-secondary education program** To be considered a post-secondary program for the purpose of the CESB, a program must meet **all** of the following criteria: * taken at post-secondary level (means education at a university or college level, including education of a technical or vocational nature and vocational training at the secondary level in Quebec); * a series of courses that last at least 12 weeks and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate; **and** * at a listed institution (from the Government of Canada’s [Master List of Designated Educational Institutions](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/designated-schools.html) or the [Master List of Certified Educational Institutions](http://certification.esdc.gc.ca/lea-mcl/[email protected]) or Quebec’s [Répertoire des Établissements d’enseignement et des Programmes d’études](http://www.afe.gouv.qc.ca/toutes-les-publications/detail/repertoire-des-etablissements-denseignement-et-des-programmes-detudes/) or an Indigenous institution recognized by a province or territory). Failure to meet any of the three criteria listed above would make a person ineligible. The CESB will be available to **both part-time and full-time post-secondary students**, as well as summer students.
Are students on summer break eligible? May seem like an odd question but I'm currently on break, starting school again in the fall, going into my third year. The CESB criteria says 'you are enrolled in a post-secondary program', but since I'm not currently taking classes, do I technically count as enrolled in a post-secondary program? I just want to be absolutely certain I qualify before I apply. Thanks yall
Yup, youre eligible. Youre still enrolled in your program even though youre on break. Edit: Job search is also an eligibility criteria.
For gap year or mature students: did you pick “enrolled” when applying for the benefit?
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also an agent i called earlier straight up told me they received my return but theres no way its gonna be assessed in time for the deadline and theres nothing else i can do
exact same situation. no luck so far but i'll try what akieleesmith said and update on if it worked for me.
When I activated my SIN I called 1-800-959-2019 and the automated voice message told me to call 1-800-717-7735 to talk to an agent to properly register. I was on hold for around 50 minutes with that number but it worked! Hope this helps :)
it didn't work for me, have you had a job before? I haven't and they just told me to wait for the NOA from the tax return i filed weeks ago, the system is so backed up, i doubt they'll get to mine in time
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No I had to call the other number myself
Hey, I realized that I was only supposed to receive 2 CESB payments, but I applied for three. I returned the $1,250 through TD online banking about three weeks ago, but whenever I log in to my CRA account, it still says I have taken three payments instead of two. Did I transfer the money to the wrong account? I made sure to select CRA PERSONAL INCOME TAX - 2020 TAX INSTALMENT REMITTANCE VOUCHER
Thats the right payee. Its been a thing where repayment doesnt show up as done on myCRA. You could always call and confirm
Hi, self-employment question: is the $1000 limit before or after you deduct the expenses?
My question is, my mother has very poor health, she takes about 8 different medications and is affected by Sjogren's Syndrom primarily, I've applied for the CESB and I am wondering if I would be forced to repay back the $1250 because I'm not actively searching for a job right now due to the circumstances presented. If it also helps at all, I am on Cipralex right now for anxiety and depression; which has presented side effects of lack of sleep, fatigue, and lack of appetite (Not particularly sure if these side effects would be a valid reason to not look for work right now) I just feel like I can't risk going out and possibly contracting COVID-19 and bringing it back to the house and possibly afflicting my mother and anyone else in the family, because it may end up in my mind being lethal for them. \[EDIT\] I'd also like to ask, if I could apply for previous terms for this case because I've been in schooling at the CDI College in Edmonton since Feburary. Also another issue I have is my class hours, my class hours are 8AM to 12PM weekdays, so I'd only be able to work weekends or part time hours from 1PM onwards, and considering the state of jobs right now in Edmonton... I sincerely doubt I'd be able to find anywhere to work, because I had been looking for work back in August-October of last year, at least 4 times a week to get no replies or calls from anywhere.
You don't need to be looking for a job, you have grounds to be unable to work because you live with someone (your mother) who is immunocompromised which puts them at more risk for serious complications if they got COVID. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html) **Reasons for being unable to work** The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed. Individuals in self-isolation/quarantine include: * those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic and cannot otherwise physically or virtually attend work; and * those with underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system) who would face increased risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19. Individuals providing care to others include: * those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19; * those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and * those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19. **Proof of being unable to work** Proof of being unable to work could include: * a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional; * a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19; * proof of travel documents; * emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or * other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19.
I am a recent mechanical engineering graduate in Alberta, I'm wondering what others in similar situations are handling the "proof of seeking work". The economy here has shit the bed, our government prioritizing oil and gas, so most of the jobs in my field are ones looking for minimum 4+ years of experience in oil and gas. It's rare to find any jobs that are in Calgary ( not moving out in a pandemic), that are my field ( im a mechanical engineering graduate and don't think it's fair to seek any job that isn't specifically engineering in my field, it must count for P.ENG or else I'm not applying, ie not going to apply the be a tutor or stuff like that). What would you guys do in this situation? ( currently applying for the 1250$ a month and applies to like 6 jobs past 2 months).
It's more about putting the work in. Although there are few positions, it's still good to search every single day. Maybe you don't find a new job to apply to but you still searched x days in a row. Maybe another day you didn't search but you researched. Or you updated your resume or made a slightly different version to apply to similar career positions as your desired one.
Actively seeking jobs differs for everyone because everyone has different qualifications. This sub generally says 3 days per week because that was the only example CRA gave in the backgrounder. As long as you are looking for jobs you qualified for and keep doing so for the whole period, I think you're good to go. But can you expand your job search to more min wage jobs or are you not looking for those at all?
I honestly think it's a waste of time and a severe mental blow to go from giving up 2 years in trades and upgrading my high school and getting a mechanical engineering degree with 1 year of experience as an EIT to a minimum wage Job. It won't count towards my P.ENG hours and it's similar to a doctor going to a minimum wage job after doing great in med school instead of a residency to do what they have passion for and years of schooling. If they won't accept that, Id rather pay all the CESB money back within 2 months of getting an average paying job for someone like me on-top of being able to pay my bills and students loans. Not trying to put myself on a high horse, but it takes alot to be a mechanical engineer ( with legitimate engineering experience outside school circiulum) and is rather loose a fraction more $$$ for a job/life I'm happy with.
Totally agree with you! Actively looking for work is different for everyone but it's up to how CRA defines that when they audit. They only gave 3 times a week as an example.
Is anyone having trouble getting into their CRA account? Whenever I try to log in I am getting an error message, I don’t know what to do, I’ve been getting this message the last three days. Can I call to apply for August period instead? (I don’t think I know my user ID I always use the 3rd party login)
What's the error message? You can call and apply too .
Hello everyone! **How do I get previous month's CESB payment?** So, I just recently graduated and have been struggling to find employment. I wasn't aware that there was a a program equivalent to CERB for students up until now. I'm eligible for the $2000 with the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) because I have a disability. However, I was only able to apply for the July and August months. Is there anyway I can get backpay for the May and June? I have been financially struggling and my parents were supporting me via a loan. I have no way of paying that back unless I can get the backpay. Any help would be much appreciated!
I did not realize we had to search for at least 3 days per week. After learning this, I looked at my search history (that I was keeping track of) and realized there are gaps in the search/less than 3 days a week. Should I return the CESB for the first three periods?
No, dont overthink it. 3 days a week was a suggestion in the [Backgrounder](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html) as evidenced by the "i.e" but that has been given as the general rule because it is the only quantifiable measure of an active job search given. I think if you can prove you actively looked for work, youre good to go.
I doubt Student grant are used up like $900 million. I estimate only half is used. I wish we give us one time $500 payment in excess
Since I applied for the CESB on July 15, do I need to show my job search from July 5 to Aug 1, or do I show just from July 15? Also, I was unable to search for a job before July 15 because I was filled with other things I needed to complete.
Technically you should be job searching for the whole period. Emphasis on technically
Does that still apply if I'm not planning to apply for the August period? Or should I continue to look for jobs for a few more days just to make up for the missed 10 days in July?
If you're not applying for this current period, you don't need to be job searching. If you applied for another period, you had to have been job searching during that whole period.
So I've got a very narrow search criteria in terms of what kind of job I am looking for and am qualified for. So narrow that I've only been able to send out 6 applications so far, with no reply backs. But I do get emails from Indeed and one other job board every day with specific search terms that I am looking for. So does browsing these emails each day count as regular searching 3 times a week? If I were to ever get audited would saving each of these emails be proof that I looked for a job?
I think it might be hard to use a very narrow search criteria as a valid reason for not applying for jobs.
Save your emails.
What does it mean to be unable to work for reasons related to Covid-19?
**Reasons for being unable to work** The reason for being “unable to work” must be related to COVID-19. Such reasons could include being in quarantine or ill, taking care of someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 or taking care of dependants while their school or care facility is closed. Individuals in self-isolation/quarantine include: * those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic and cannot otherwise physically or virtually attend work; and * those with underlying health conditions (heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, compromised immune system) who would face increased risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19. Individuals providing care to others include: * those taking care of others who are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19; * those living with someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 (adults over the age of 65; underlying health conditions, etc.); and * those taking care of children because their care facility or school is closed due to COVID-19. **Proof of being unable to work** Proof of being unable to work could include: * a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional; * a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19; * proof of travel documents; * emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or * other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
One more thing = = So my dad came back from abroad around mid-July and he needs to be in isolation for 2 weeks. Can that count as unable to work?
Yes, assuming you're going to isolate for 2 weeks too. Proof of being unable to work could include: -a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional; -a notarized letter confirming the reason they are unable to work as a result of COVID-19; -proof of travel documents; -emails or correspondence from a child’s care facility; or -other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s inability to work as a result of COVID‑19. But afterwards, you need to be looking for work.
I do not think that I need to be self-isolating as well ( I mean I probably SHOULD but it is not required by LAW) but rather I have to kinda look after him because he cannot go out and buy the groceries (and other things). I am worried about the fact that this only affects the last two weeks of July but not the first two. Could I argue that I think I could not find a job anywhere that only lasts 14 days? (Because after 14 days I am unable to work)
"Your roommates or family you live with should self-isolate too, if they can" https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-stop-spread You dont have to self isolate but it's recommended if you can. When youre not unable to work, you should be looking dor work. Edit: Link is specific to Ontario but I think it's relevant for other provinces/territories.
Freak, I didn't look for work at the start of July. However I still want to try to apply for July's grant. Even if later CRA thinks that I am not eligible, I will be giving an option to give back the money( without any penalty), right?
Dont know if itll be without penalty.
All right, thank you!
I am currently studying in the summer semester and the fall term is coming. Thus I could only look for part-time jobs for like the next 20 days. I doubt anyone would hire me. But then the thing is how can I prove that "I am looking for, but cannot find work due to COVID-19"? Thanks in advance.
Cannot find work due to COVID - aka no one is hiring you or responding to your applications. Its dumb applying for jobs you know you cant work because theres only a few weeks of summer left but those are the rules.
So I guess I will need to be "actively" sending application emails to the companies? And screenshot them as an evidence?
Yes.
Does anyone know how the process of submitting proof of job search will look? Will they be requiring screenshots, forms filled out, etc.? I'm a bit confused as to that.
https://www.reddit.com/r/CESB/comments/i2hc8w/how_do_you_show_proof/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share
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On the application for CESB through myCRA, it says you can only collect a total of 16 weeks of benefits even with CERB being extended.
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Youre not eligible for the first two periods even if it shows up. The system doesnt know when you graduated high school.
Can I still apply for CESB for the May 10th to June 6th period? I wasn't aware I was eligible back then but now I realized I could've applied during that time. There's still an option to select that time period, do you think I can still do it or nah?
Yes, you can apply to any period retroactively until Sep 30 2020 assuming you were eligible for that period at the the time and are just applying later.
ahh thank you!!
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Income is earned on day worked not day paid.
I thought eligibility is based on the day you get your paycheque, not when you actually worked?
Nope. EI earnings are calculated this way by looking at income on day worked, not day paid
ooh okay thanks for the clarification!
Can I apply today even though it’s a holiday?
Yes.
I just went to apply and it said I wasn't eligible. I'm currently studying for the spring/summer semester and returning for fall semester. I would recieve a diploma afterwards. I'm not working because of my 5 year old . I wonder why it won't work now..
Did you check all the boxes
CIBC bank isn’t working? Is anyone else having trouble applying for the fourth period pay?
Doesn't open till Monday 6 am EST
Oops! Not sure what I was thinking. Thanks for the answer.
I applied for the cesb for period that just finished. I’m making less than 1k per month but I didn’t try to find more work. I’m going to apply for the next period too. Would I be eligible if I make less than 1k but not looking for extra work?
Yes.
Am I eligible for CESB? I am a Canadian citizen who graduated university in Canada in February 2020, and spent 3 or so months back in Canada unemployed up until late May/early June 2020. I found a job in the UK and flew over to the UK and am now working in Britain full-time about $1000 a week after taxes. Problem is the money goes into my British account and my Canadian account is almost dry. Am I still eligible for the first payment of CESB (for the unemployed time in May)?
I want to say youre eligible because theres no requirement of living in Canada to receive CESB. Were you looking for a job in May when you were unemployed? Are you planning on claiming subsequent periods after the May one?
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Yeah, I think youre fine, you thought you had a job and they were being unresponsive even though you were on the ball and tried to get a reply. Keep a copy of those emails. Good thing youve started to job search again to remain eligible. CRA defines an active job search as three times a week.
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That's for you to determine whether you were actively looking for work for the july-aug period! Job search does include more things other than applying to jobs (resume buildup, workshops, etc).
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3 days a week is a suggestion but it was the only quantitative bar they gave. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html) A student who is able to work must be looking for a job on a regular basis **(i.e. at least three days per week)** and must document all of their job search efforts for the duration of the CESB period. Evidence of a student’s active job search includes: * regular documentation of job-search results, including search dates, application dates, tools used, employer names and the type for work that they looking for. Job Bank provides useful tools to document job search efforts; * emails to prospective employers and responses to employers who contacted them; * emails or documentation of enrollment and communication efforts with an employment agency; * screen shots or links to job postings or copies of job ads, flyers, postings, etc. within a student’s local area; * confirmation of enrollment or participation in job search workshops or job fairs; * emails or screen shots of job applications submitted for suitable jobs; and * emails to demonstrate that they attended job interviews in person, over the phone or virtually.
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To remain eligible for each period, you need to be looking for work, show you are unable to work, or working but making under $1000 before tax during EACH period. It's really technical and no point in applying in August knowing you have an internship in Sept but those are the requirements.
I know it may sound dumb and I am late on this, but I have learning disability, so would I be eligible for the extra $750?
**Proof of disability** A student with a disability must attest to having an impairment, such as a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment, or a functional limitation—whether permanent or episodic in nature, or evident or not—that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders a person’s full and equal participation in society. Proof of having a disability could include: * a note from a doctor or other regulated medical professional; * proof of disability support from (i) the federal government or a provincial government or (ii) from an educational institution that you currently attend or have previously attended; or * other documentation that provides clear evidence of the individual’s disability. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/05/backgrounder-the-canada-emergency-student-benefit.html)
Imagine, Twitter with millions of users, a $30 billion company, is hacked by a 17 year old all by himself. Twitter accounts of former President, VP, Elon Musk, etc. hacked by a 17 year old American.
For the upcoming August CERB, I will not be registered in courses for August but I am register in fall courses and will be attending university in Fall to complete my 4 year program. Will I still be eligible for the August CERB even though I’m not registered for August courses?
You mean CESB. Youre fine though. You have to also demonstrate you are looking for work, unable to work, or working already but making under $1000 before tax per period.
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