Entries by Brian Brotherston

Highlights of the 2020 Federal Fall Economic Statement | Additional $20,000 CEBA loan available now

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland recently provided the government’s fall economic update. It included information on the government’s strategy for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and its plan to help shape the recovery. We’ve summarized the highlights for you:

• Corporate Tax Changes, including extensions to subsidy programs.

• Personal Tax Changes, including additional Canada Child Benefit Plan payments and a new “Work from home” tax credit.

• Indirect Tax Changes, including the proposal to charge GST/HST on services provided via digital platforms, as well as the temporary removal of GST/HST on face masks and shields.

For business owners, as of December 4th, the CEBA loan has been expanded by an additional $20,000.

Applications for the new Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy starts today!

The new Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy is open for applications today! Unlike the previous program, this subsidy will provide payments directly to qualifying renters and property owners, without requiring the participation of landlords.

CERS covers up to 65% of rent for businesses, charities and non-profits impacted by COVID-19.

An additional 25% Lockdown Support is available during a public health lockdown order.

Applications for Canada Recovery Benefit now open!

The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) is now open for applications.

If you are eligible for the CRB, you can receive $1,000 ($900 after taxes withheld) for a 2-week period.

If your situation continues past 2 weeks, you will need to apply again. You may apply up to a total of 13 eligibility periods (26 weeks) between September 27, 2020 and September 25, 2021.

CEBA extended to October 31st. Expanded to include more businesses.

On August 31st, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland announced the extension of the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) to October 31st, 2020. This will give small businesses 2 additional months to apply for the $40,000 loan.

In addition, the Federal Government said it was working with financial institutions to make the CEBA program available to those with qualifying payroll or non-deferrable expenses that have so far been unable to apply due to not operating from a business banking account.