B.C. recovery benefit applications online Dec. 18

Finance Minister Selina Robinson says people in British Columbia can start applying online for the government's pandemic recovery benefit for eligible families and individuals starting Dec. 18.

Robinson introduced legislation Tuesday to provide the tax-free recovery benefit of $1,000 for families and $500 for individuals to about 3.7 million people.

British Columbians will soon be able to apply for the BC Recovery Benefit. This one-time, tax-free payment of up to $1,000 for families & single parents, & up to $500 for individuals, will help support British Columbians who are dealing with the pressures of #Covid19. #CovidBC pic.twitter.com/6lUzhsAecV

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) December 8, 2020

To apply you will need your:
✅ Social insurance number
✅ 2019 income tax notice of assessment from the CRA
✅ If applicable, spouse’s 2019 income tax notice of assessment from the CRA
✅ Direct deposit information

Learn more: https://t.co/4JqNu2wQNm #Covid19 #CovidBC

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) December 8, 2020

She says the cost of the program, including increases to income and disability assistance payments, amounts to about $1.7 billion.

Robinson says she expects some people will receive the one-time recovery benefit before Christmas, while others will get the money deposited into their accounts before the end of this year.

Robinson says she will also provide an update on the province's finances in the coming days.

B.C.'s legislature resumed sitting Monday for a short pre-Christmas session to introduce and pass the recovery benefit legislation.