$1,000 BC Emergency Benefit for Workers applications start May 1st

On May 1st, the BC Government will start taking applications online for the BC Emergency Benefit for Workers. Telephone applications will start on May 4th but it is strongly recommended that you apply online as they anticipate high call volumes. This benefit provides a one time payment of $1,000 to residents of BC whose ability to work has been affected due to COVID-19.

Eligibility

The BC government website states:

“To be eligible for the emergency benefit, you must:

• Have been a resident of British Columbia on March 15, 2020

• Meet the eligibility requirements for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)

• Have been approved for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, even if you haven’t received a federal benefit payment yet

• Be at least 15 years old on the date you apply

• Have filed, or agree to file, a 2019 B.C. income tax return

• Not be receiving provincial income assistance or disability assistance

If you receive a payment and we later determine that you are not eligible for it, you may be required to repay it with penalties and interest.”

What you need to apply

You will need the following information:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)

• Individual Tax Number (ITN) OR

• Temporary Tax Number (TTN)

As well as your direct deposit information for your bank.