Applications for $1,000 BC Recovery Benefit will begin soon

Starting Dec. 18, most British Columbians will get a lift with the launch of the BC Recovery Benefit, enabling many families and individuals to receive the benefit by the end of the year.
“We know that making ends meet during the holiday season is a concern for many families, even without the added stress of a pandemic. These additional supports will mean BC families will have extra dollars to spend when they need it most,” said Selina Robinson, minister of finance. “These benefits will also help stimulate our local economy and support small businesses that are working hard and providing good jobs for people. This is an important part of how we recover.”
Last week, the BC government introduced legislation to secure funding for approximately 3.7 million British Columbians to receive the tax-free BC Recovery Benefit.
• $1,000 for families with incomes under $125,000. Families earning up to $175,000 will qualify for a reduced benefit amount. Single-parent families also qualify for these benefit amounts.
• $500 for single people earning less than $62,500. Single people earning up to $87,500 will qualify for a reduced benefit amount.
“This pandemic has had significant impacts on vulnerable populations, so that’s why, unlike with the previous workers’ benefit, people on income or disability assistance will be eligible for the recovery benefit, and they will receive a recovery supplement of $150/month,” said Nicholas Simons, minister of social development and poverty reduction. “Coupled together, the recovery benefit and recovery supplement will provide vulnerable families with up to $1,900 during this difficult winter season.”
Low-income seniors receiving the senior’s supplement will also receive an additional recovery benefit at $150 per month from January to March 2021. Submitted