Millions of Canadians across the nation are reeling at the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has had, not just on their social life, but on their pocketbook, too. While thousands of people who have been infected are dealing with terrifying health issues, millions of others are placed under incredible financial stress thanks to the loss of jobs and the closing of all non-essential businesses.
While not necessarily enough to make up for what’s already been lost, the government’s financial relief programs offer some consolation. Provincial governments are offering their own financial relief options, while the federal government is doing the same.
More specifically, the federal government has recently announced its Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) that promises to offer some economic relief to many business owners who have been experiencing a significant decline or complete cut-off in income.
Let’s get into more detail about what the CEBA is and how it may be able to help you during these trying times.
What Is The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)?
The new Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) was created to provide funds to small businesses that have lost income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds received through the CEBA can be used to cover immediate operating expenses costs. The newly developed program will provide loans for small businesses and not-for-profits for up to $40,000.
Update* On October 26, 2020, the Government of Canada announced it would be adding an extra $20,000 to the CEBA loan. This means businesses can borrow up to $60,000 from the original $40,000. Moreover, the deadline to apply for the CEBA loan has extended to June 30, 2021.
Find out more about the CEBA loan extension.
Does My Business Qualify For A CEBA Loan?
As you would imagine, there are qualification requirements in order for a business to be eligible for the CEBA. More specifically, businesses must be registered in Canada and will need to prove that between $50,000 to $1 million was paid out in total payroll in 2019.
Update* Thursday, April 17th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a change in CEBA loan requirements during his daily news conference. The previous payroll requirement of $50,000 to $1 million has now been expanded to $20,000 to $1.5 million in an effort to include more businesses that have been affected by COVID-19.
Update * As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, so has the Government of Canada’s response. As of June 26, 2020, the Government of Canda has expanded the CEBA eligibility requirements. Now businesses without payroll and even small businesses who receive income directly are eligible for the CEBA. If you’d like further details on the eligibility requirements for small businesses, please visit the Government of Canada.
When Will The CEBA Loans Be Available?
Applications are currently open and can be applied through your business’s primary bank. Business owners who believe they qualify or are in dire need of funds to make up for lost income but, require additional information on applying are urged to contact their bank.
Update* The government of Canada has recently extended the CEBA program which launched on April 09, 2020. The CEBA application deadline was originally set for August 31, 2020, but now has been extended to October 31, 2020.
Update* The CEBA loan deadline has been extended to June 30, 2021.
Due to the economic uncertainty and length of the COVID-19 crisis, the government has extended the CEBA deadline. It is unknown whether the government will extended the deadline again if the COVID-19 crisis continues.
What Is The Interest On The Loans?
Business owners will not have to worry about paying any interest for up to one year while holding the loan. Further, as much as $10,000 of the loan may be forgiven if the remaining loan balance is paid back in full by (or before) December 31, 2022.
If the loaned funds are not paid back by this date, the loan can be converted into a 3-year installment loan with a 5% interest rate. The loan will be repaid in monthly installments, with the first payment due January 31, 2023. The full loan balance and all interest accrued will then be due by December 31, 2025.
Where Can I Apply For A CEBA Loan?
Considering the social distancing protocols that are in place, many bank branches have either reduced hours or closed altogether. As such, business owners can apply online through the financial institution that your primary Business Operating Account is held at.
- TD
- Scotiabank
- RBC – RBC Express clients must call their account manager for separate information on how to apply for CEBA.
- CIBC
- BMO
What Information Do I Need To Provide?
You will need to supply the following:
- 2019 T4 Summary of Remuneration Paid statement to apply for the CEBA.
- The 15 digit Canada Revenue Agency business number
- Business bank account details (ex: business account number, business bank branch number)
How Long Will It Take To Get The Funds?
Considering the fact that you’ve likely experienced a dramatic drop in sales or closed your doors completely, you’re likely ready to gain access to much-needed funds as soon as possible. This is understandable, given the fact that bills are still piling up and need to be paid. The question is, how long will it take to get the funds after applying for the CEBA?
After you successfully submit your application, you can expect to receive your funds within 7 business days. The money will be deposited directly into your business account after you have been approved. From there, you can gain access to the funds and use it to cover any operational expenses you may have to keep your business afloat.
Is There Other Financial Support?
The government is doing what it can to help financially cover both individuals and businesses who are suffering economically as a result of the spread of the novel coronavirus. And in addition to the CEBA, businesses may also have another program at their disposal: the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP).
This program was recently put in place by the government to help businesses get any needed financing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The government will provide $65 billion in loans and other financial support through this program at market rates.
In order to be eligible, businesses must have adequate business models and prove that they are unable to access financing any other way. The goal of this program is to help businesses gain access to additional lending by private sector institutions in an effort to fill any financial voids they may be experiencing.
Businesses interested in the BCAP should get in touch with the financial institutions that they have their business account with in order for the respective financial institution to be able to assist with accessing additional leveraged funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m a sole proprietor and only have a personal checking account. Can I still apply?
I have more than one business. Can I enroll each business for CEBA?
I have multiple financial accounts to run my business. How do I know which bank to apply with?
How do I apply for CEBA if my business has multiple owners?
Final Thoughts
This is a tough time for everyone, especially those who have found their businesses losing a significant amount of money or even on the brink of shutting down for good. Thankfully, there is some recourse in the form of government programs like the Canada Emergency Business Account and the Business Credit Availability Program. If your business is suffering right now, consider reaching out to your financial institution to see if you qualify for any one of these programs.
