Covid-19 – Emergency Financial Aid for Albertans

EMERGENCY FINANCIAL AID

People and businesses are going through significant challenges, and unfortunately, that may continue for a while. The government is responding as quickly as it can. Some of the measures put in place today include:

• Individuals who meet the requirements established by Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health will be able to apply next week for Emergency Isolation Support. This will be a one-time payment of $573.00/per week for a maximum of 2 weeks (comparable to the maximum EI payments) and is expected to be deposited in bank accounts by the end of next week. This is to bridge the gap between now and when the Federal EI program begins.
• Albertans will be able to defer Residential, farm, and small commercial utility bills for the next 90 days if needed. No one will be cut off from their electricity or heat during this time
• Student loan payments will have a six-month, interest-free moratorium for all individuals who are repaying them. This applies to Alberta Student Loans, but Canada Student Loans have also implemented the same.
• Along with other major banks, ATB Financial is implementing the ability to defer payment on credit products, including loans, for up to 6 months. If you require this assistance, please speak to your financial institution to make arrangements. Small business owners will have access to working capital if they require it through at least ATB.
  Other Credit Unions are also offering support.
• Outstanding corporate taxes are being deferred until August 31st.

We made a commitment to do everything we can to help individuals and businesses cope with this pandemic. Stayed tuned as more measures and processes become available.

MLA Shane Getson (UCP)

Lac Ste. Anne-Parkland Constituency, Alberta