COVID-19: Online applications for B.C. Recovery Benefit now open

Minister of Finance Selina Robinson asked people to be patient.

“I’d like to thank the B.C. public service for getting this program up and running so quickly and to the hundreds of Service B.C. call centre staff who will be helping British Columbians apply for their B.C. Recovery Benefit,” said Robinson, in a statement Friday morning.

“Please be patient and respectful to staff over the holidays as call volumes may result in longer wait times.”

An estimated 3.7 million individuals and families, or 90 per cent of all B.C. adults, are eligible for the benefit.

Eligibility includes $1,000 for families with annual 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.

Single people with annual incomes under $62,500 qualify for $500. Single people earning up to $87,500 will qualify for a reduced benefit amount.

Applying online is the easiest way to receive the B.C. Recovery Benefit. To apply, British Columbians can visit: gov.bc.ca/recoverybenefit

Those without computers can apply by phone starting Monday by calling 1 833 882-0020.

To learn more about the recovery benefit read COVID-19: What is the B.C. recovery benefit and how do I apply?

The one-time payment is tax-free and the amount will vary depending on an individual’s or family’s income.