Critical Worker Benefit application open to Aug. 31 Extending the deadline for applications gives employers more time to apply as they focus on reopening their businesses. Some parts of this page will not display. JavaScript is not available in this browser or may be turned off. As Alberta’s economy recovers, small and medium-sized businesses are focused on reopening and rehiring staff. Many of these businesses also provided services to Albertans in the midst of the pandemic and have employees who are eligible for the Critical Worker Benefit. In order to make sure these businesses can focus on reopening while ensuring their employees can get the Critical Worker Benefit, the deadline for private sector employers to submit applications has been extended to August 31.