TurboTax wants to ensure accuracy with the information we have provided in this article, all content will be updated as we learn more from the Canada Revenue Agency, the Government of Canada and Revenu Quebec.
The Québec government has harmonized its measures with some of the federal government assistance programs. So you will be able to apply for federal emergency response benefits if you qualify. Check the TurboTax link on different COVID-19 emergency responses.
Support for Individuals
Incentive Program to Retain Essential Workers
Revenu Quebec introduced the Incentive Program to Retain Essential Workers (IPREW) for individuals who work in essential services. Eligible workers got up to $1,600 of taxable benefits in addition to the regular wages. The program paid $100 per week for up to 16 weeks. The services were available until Nov 17th, 2020.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the program, you had to meet all the following conditions:
- You are at least 15 years’ old
- Your annual income was less than $28,000 in 2020
- You earned at least $5,000 in 2020
- You are not self-employed
- You earned a maximum of $550 per week as a part-time or full-time in eligible income
- You did not receive CERB, CRB or CESB
Change in wages during the year:
If your wages increased and you end up with a total annual income of more than $28,000, Revenu Quebec can apply a 50% penalty on the amount paid. You will need to contact RQ as soon as possible to determine the eligibility of the amounts received.
Employment Expenses Related to Teleworking
As a relief, more salaried employees can claim certain expenses related to working from home due to COVID-19 as long as your employer did not reimburse these expenses. you may be able claim expenses such as:
- Internet fees related to work
- Office supplies such as pencils, papers, ink cartridge, etc.
- Home office expenses if you are using your home office to carry out more than 50% of your employment duty. You can claim heat, electricity, cleaning products, and minor repairs. You can also deduct a portion of the rent that is related to the work space.
You have to file the TP-64.3-V – General Employment Condition and have it signed by your employer. RQ will accept an electronic signature from your employer or a scanned signature as a relief. You also need the TP-59-V form for Employment Expenses to be able to complete the claim.
Visit this link for more information about Revenue Quebec response to Individuals.
Support for Businesses
Emergency Assistance for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
The Emergency Assistance for Small and Medium Sized Businesses program offers emergency assistance for small and medium sized businesses that need $50,000 or less.
Eligibility:
To be eligible, the business has to operate in Quebec for at least one year. The business has to show signs of closing or is closed because of COVID. Business in all industry sectors including non-profit organizations are qualified for the program.
The assistance will take a form of up to $50,000 loan. You must prove you need the funds to supply materials for your business or that you are unable to deliver your products.
Assistance stream for businesses in regions under maximum alert (ABRUMA)
Some businesses must partially or completely cease operations because they are located in a maximum alert zone (red zone). The Assistance for Businesses in Regions Under Maximum Alert (ABRUMA) is created within the Emergency Assistance for Small and Medium-sized Businesses to include loan forgiveness for these special operations.
The forgiveness amount will cover up to 80% of the operating costs of up to a $15,000 per month. The business has to be ordered to close but not voluntarily closed. The cease of operation has to last 10 days minimum every month.
Business owners are able to access the same emergency benefits provided by CRA. For more information, visit this Revenu Quebec link for FAQs concerning business.
For more information on the assistance programs offered by the province of Quebec, please click HERE for a direct link to their website.