After first announcing the aid in March, the B.C. provincial government says they will will open applications for a one-time tax-free payment of $1,000 for workers on May 1st.
Most people eligible for the $2,000/month Canada Emergency Response Benefit will also be eligible for this B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers, including those who have run out of employment insurance (EI) benefits and subsequently qualify for the CERB.
See also: B.C. announces $5 billion relief package for people and businesses affected by COVID-19
Eligibility requirements for the $1,000 payment include:
- B.C. residency as of March 15th, 2020,
- Meeting eligibility requirements for CERB,
- Approval for the CERB, even if they have not received a benefit yet,
- Age 15 or above,
- Filed, or agreed to file, a 2019 B.C. income tax return,
- Not be receiving provincial income assistance or disability assistance.
“This benefit is further help for British Columbians who are worried about paying their bills and making ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Carole James, Minister of Finance.
“During these uncertain times, we want to get through this together by helping displaced workers support themselves and their families.”
Those who meet the criteria can begin applying online at www.gov.bc.ca/workerbenefit on May 1st, and on the phone at 778 309-4630 or toll-free within B.C. at 1 855 955-3545 on May 4th.
The phone lines for this benefit will be open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can also be dialled for general support and inquiries starting May 1st.
This benefit is part of the $5 billion COVID-19 Action Plan to support individuals and businesses that was announced on March 23rd.
See all the latest updates about the global COVID-19 pandemic on Vancouver Island
The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.
Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.
The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19 line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the coronavirus pandemic.
As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 2,682,745.
Over 187,900 people have died from the illness and 736,405 have made a full recovery.
