The new CERS (the previous version known as CECRA) will provide direct rent and mortgage interest support to tenants and property owners until June 2021. The new rent subsidy will support businesses, charities, and non-profits that have suffered a revenue drop by providing support up to a maximum of 65%of eligible expenses until December 19, 2020. You can access claims retroactively to September 27, 2020.
The new Lockdown Support, which will provide an additional 25% through CERS for qualifying organizations that are subject to a lockdown and must shut their doors or significantly restrict their activities under a public health order issued under the laws of Canada, a province or territory.
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria, click here to read.
The 4-week periods match the CEWS (Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy) periods - As you will see, these dates do not quite match the calendar month but align with the CEWS date ranges.
You can apply for
Period September 1 27 - October 24 as of Monday, November 23
Period October 2 25 - November 21 as of Monday, November 30
Period November 3 22 - December 19 as of Monday, December 23
Several Eligible Expenses apply to a qualified owned or rented property. Click here to read the full list.
It is important to note that any non-arm's length (relatives and/or family, affiliated businesses) transactions cannot be part of the eligible expenses. For instance, your company leases a commercial unit (used for business purposes) from your parents. This expense your business incurs (rent) is NOT considered an eligible expense.
Currently, all eligible expenses must be paid in the period that they were incurred; however, the proposed legislation looks to change this requirement - to be payable within 60 days of the period ending.
To apply for the CERS, create a CERS (ZA) number before you apply for the CERS subsidy. You can do this in My Business CRA account. And while you are at it, ensure you have your business direct deposit banking information. Note that the Lockdown Support is fixed to 25%.
If you need help with this topic or any other subsidy connect with us by filling out the Contact Us Form.