Over 16,000 British Columbians have already applied for the province’s Emergency Benefit for Workers after applications opened Friday morning.
The benefit provides a one-time, tax free payment of $1,000 to people whose ability to work has been affected by COVID-19.
“For people who’ve been let go of their jobs or trying to get by working on reduced hours, we know the pandemic has been weighing heavily on you and your family,” said B.C. Finance Minister Carole James during a press conference Friday morning.
“This will provide significant help for people whose jobs and incomes have been impacted by COVID-19.”
James said that, within 45 minutes of that portal opening, 16,389 people applied for the benefit.
The best, and fastest, way to apply for the benefit is through the online portal. Starting Monday, May 4, government agents will be available by phone for those who need help applying or do not have internet access.
To be eligible for the benefit, people must:
- have been a resident of B.C. on March 15, 2020;
- meet the eligibility requirements of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB);
- have been approved for the CERB, even if a federal benefit payment has not yet been received;
- be at least 15 years old on the date of application;
- have filed, or agree to file, a 2019 B.C. income tax return; and
- not be receiving provincial incomes assistance or disability assistance.
