Resources for Employees

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Uncertainty about the current situation is causing anxiety for employees and employers alike. Federal, provincial, and municipal governments are helping with various support programs.

This information is intended for informational purposes only. Businesses and individuals should consult their accountant, financial advisor, or government authorities before applying or making decisions about how they should use this information.

Federal Support

Employment Insurance (For those who have lost their job or are being laid off because of COVID-19 and are not sick)

• Employment Insurance (EI) provides regular benefits to individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own (e.g. shortage of work, seasonal or mass lay-offs) and are available for and able to work, but can’t find a job.

Employment Insurance (For those affected by COVID-19 & placed in quarantine only)

• Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits can provide you with up to 15 weeks of financial assistance if you cannot work for medical reasons.

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)

The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are unable to work because they are sick or need to self-isolate due to COVID-19, or have an underlying health condition that puts them at greater risk of getting COVID-19.

Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)

The Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are unable to work because they must care for their child under 12 years old or a family member who needs supervised care.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

The Canada child benefit (CCB) is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

• A tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age.
• May include the child disability benefit and any related provincial and territorial programs.

Reducing Withdrawals from Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs)

• Reducing required minimum withdrawals from Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) by 25% for 2020, in recognition of volatile market conditions and their impact on many seniors’ retirement savings.
• Will provide flexibility to seniors that are concerned that they may be required to liquidate their RRIF assets to meet minimum withdrawal requirements.
• Similar rules would apply to individuals receiving variable benefit payments under a defined contribution Registered Pension Plan.

Mental Health Support

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. It can depend on a person’s personality and experiences, their social and economic circumstances, and the availability of local resources. Stress can also contribute to workplace harassment and bullying.

Learn more about supporting your employees, as well as yourself, at this stressful time.

Family Violence Support

Isolation is a risk factor for family violence. If you are experiencing family violence, please seek help.

Resources for Family Violence

• Family violence help line (available 24/7 to provide advice and referrals to community supports near you): Call 310-1818
• Family violence info line chat (Government of Alberta)
• Family violence- find supports (Government of Alberta)

Helping Your Employees Navigate COVID-19

Mortgage Deferrals

• Many banking institutions in Canada have made a commitment to work with personal & business banking customers on a case-by-case basis to provide flexible solutions to help them manage through COVID.
• Contact your bank to make arrangements:

Property taxes

Please check with your city/town for any accommodations being made for property tax payments.

Please contact us at WeHelpHotels@ahla.ca or 780.436.6112 (toll-free 1.888.436.6112) if you have other questions or need additional support.