On August 20, 2020, the federal government announced its
transition from the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
to a simplified Employment Insurance (EI) program to provide income
support to those unable to work due to COVID-19.
In addition to simplifying access to EI, the government will
introduce three new temporary recovery benefits: the Canada
Recovery Sickness Benefit, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit
and the Canada Recovery Benefit.
Subject to parliamentary approval, these programs will be
effective starting September 27 and available for one year.
Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit
The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit will provide $500 per week
for up to two weeks to workers who are unable to work because they
are sick or must self-isolate due to COVID-19. Workers cannot claim
this benefit and receive other paid sick leave for the same benefit
period.