Available May 1st, the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers is a one-time payment of a $1,000. It’s being offered to British Columbians whose paycheque was impacted by the pandemic. If you qualify for the Federal Government’s Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), you can also apply for this $1,000 aid. Here’s what else you need to know:

To be eligible for the $1,000 benefit you must:

• Be a B.C. resident as of March 15th, 2020
• Meet all eligibility requirements of the Federal Government’s Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), even if you haven’t received a payment yet
• Be at least 15 years old on the date of application 
• Have filed, or agree to file, a 2019 B.C. income tax return
• Not be receiving any provincial income assistance

To apply:

• On May 1st, you can apply for the emergency benefit online (on a desktop or through your mobile device). Head to the Government of British Columbia’s website for the application portal when it launches on May 1st
• On May 4th, you can apply over the phone by calling toll-free 1.855.955.3545
• You will need your Social Insurance Number and your direct deposit information (your bank account info) to apply for the benefit. Follow the link at the end of this article to learn how to find your Coastal Community account info

Important to remember:

• This is a one-time, tax-free payment of $1,000 that’s available for British Columbians
• Application opens May 1st (if you’ll be applying online) or May 4th (if you’ll be applying over the phone)
• The $1,000 benefit will be paid into your account within 10 business days