CERB & CRB – Second Review

When a second review makes sense

If CRA has said you weren’t entitled to CERB, CRB or other COVID 19 benefits, the first step is usually a request for second review. I act for people facing repayment demands, interest, or collection action because CRA believes they failed the income, residency or other eligibility rules.

Building a complete second review package

A second review is your chance to put everything on the table. I:

• Reconstruct your income and work situation period by period

• Collect tax returns, invoices, bank records and other supporting documents

• Prepare detailed written submissions explaining exactly why you qualified

My default approach is to take full lead of the file and come to you only with focused questions, so you’re not left to figure out what CRA needs on your own.

Timelines and expectations

Second reviews can move slowly. It’s common for these decisions to take close to a year from when the request is filed. That makes it even more important to file a strong, well organized package from day one.