As of November 23rd, 2020, applications for the first period (September 27 – October 24) of the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) are available online. Applications can be accessed through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Business Account or Represent a Client portals. Prior to applying for the CERS, we recommend utilizing the CRA’s online CERS calculator, which similar in design to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) calculator. Applications received by November 30th will be processed that day, and claims that pass the CRA’s automated verification system will receive direct deposit payments starting on December 4th. Applications for the second CERS period (October 25 – November 21) will open on November 30th.
Proposed CERS Amendment
The Federal Government has also proposed a CERS amendment that will allow applicants to include eligible CERS expenses in advance of the payment of the eligible expense. This amendment would enable CERS claimants to claim amounts that are payable for the claim period in addition to amounts already paid. Unpaid amounts at the time of CERS application must be paid no later than 60 days after the payment of the subsidy.
The CERS is another government program that involves numerous complex calculations. If you have concerns about the accuracy of your self-prepared application and any CERS related queries, please contact your Bateman MacKay Business Advisor.
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