Canada’s March labour report, released last week, showed the economy lost more than one million jobs last month in the midst of Covid-19. An uncertain national health emergency has led to unprecedented measures by the government to help those who have suddenly lost jobs and incomes.

Since the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit application process went live last Monday, more than five million people have applied for it, and most have been approved. The application takes just a few minutes and the processing times are fast, but there are still many questions around who actually qualifies to get this help. According to the federal Minister of Employment Carla Qualtrough, the process is simple right now and almost everyone will get approved but they might have to pay it back next tax season when the government will actually begin to verify the eligibility criteria.

Today, Saba Eitizaz speaks to employment lawyer Hermie Abraham to help answer some of the questions around the emergency help. Who is eligible, how they can apply and who might still be left behind, although the government is moving fast to expand the umbrella of financial protection.

The Star’s Calgary reporter Rosa Saba joins Saba to tell you something you really need to know: this is quick, much needed cash right now, but some of you might have to pay it back.

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