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:
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Social Insurance Number (SIN)
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Individual Tax Number (ITN) OR
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Temporary Tax Number (TTN)
As well as your direct deposit information for your bank.