Monika B Herr, Virtual Controller

They changed the rules a few times. One of those times was a few weeks (?) into CERB rolling out when it was announced everyone who applied would receive payment, both the eligible and ineligible. This was done to get desperately needed funds to vulnerable Canadians. They changed it again when it became apparent self-employed individuals were falling into a gap. There were a number of such changes in the first few months as the gaps arose. All done in the spirit of trying not... to leave any in need behind. They did make people aware that reviews of eligibility would most likely start with the 2020 tax season. The mess unfolding for the self-employed is sad at least and devastating at most. It is also sad that, as with any type of financial social assistance, it is easiest for the government to find those who made a mistake (perhaps out of desperation blindness) than it is to find those who deliberately stole (aka collected but weren't entitled to collect but know how to make it appear as if they are) these funds from taxpayers. This is also why anyone who is/wants to be self employed needs to understand that they are taking on all legal obligations as a business in government dealings. Ignorance of the law, regardless of how convoluted it seems or hard to find it is, does not relieve one of the responsibility of compliance with law. This unfortunately includes laws that are created and amended on an ad hoc basis to evolve with an unfolding global crisis. https://www.ctvnews.ca//unclear-wording-of-cerb-eligibilit See more

It is understandable that the average Canadian taxpayer lacks an understanding of the difference between profit and revenue. It is unfortunate that many self-employed individuals lack that knowledge as well. It took much digging but the answer to how CRA uses the word profit was on the website from the beginning. While not clearly evident it could be found. It is appropriate for the government to reclaim this money on behalf of Canadian tax payers. It would also be appropriate if they do so in a way that does not bankrupt the citizens involved or otherwise destroy their livelihoods and lives.