B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers

Last updated: June 10, 2020. For the most up-to-date information, see British Columbia's Response to COVID-19, Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, and our Government Resources page

If your ability to work has been affected by COVID-19, you may qualify for a tax-free, one-time $1,000 payment. Learn more about whether you are eligible and how to apply for the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers.

All information in this section comes from the Government of British Columbia.

Who is eligible?

You…

  • Were a resident of British Columbia on March 15, 2020.
  • Meet the eligibility requirements for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). Learn more from our project partner, the Bảo Vệ Collective.
  • Have been approved for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), even if you haven’t received a federal benefit payment yet.
  • Are at least 15 years old on the date you apply.
  • Have filed, or agree to file, a 2019 B.C. income tax return.
  • Are not receiving provincial income assistance or disability assistance.

Application process

You can apply for the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers online or by phone, but online applications are encouraged. The application should take about 15-minutes to complete and is only available in English.

To apply by phone, call

  • 1-855-955-3545 (within BC only).
  • 1-778-309-4630 (outside B.C.) Available Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

To apply, you need one of the following:

  • Social Insurance Number (SIN).
  • Individual Tax Number (ITN).
  • Temporary Tax Number (TTN).

Direct deposit information

You can only receive the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers by direct deposit. You can find your direct deposit information at the bottom of your bank cheques. Use the image below from the Province of Britsh Columbia to guide you.

An image of a bank cheque highlighting the 5-digit Branch (Transit) Number, 3-digit Institution Number, and 7-digit Account Number, respectively

If you don’t have cheques, contact your financial institution and ask them for your branch number, institution number, and account number.

 

More information

Be careful of disinformation

An increasing number of scams during the COVID-19 pandemic aim to profit from community members’ uncertainties and fears about the global health crisis. Learn about scams to watch out for and where to find credible, accurate information on our Financial Scam and Fraud Resources page.

Christa Yeung