Have you done your 2019 tax? If no, it’s time to hurry up. If you were required to file a 2019 Canadian personal income tax return, but have not done so yet, you must file a 2019 return before applying for the benefit.
The BC government has introduced the new BC Recovery Benefit on December 8, 2020. The BC Recovery Benefit is a one-time, tax-free payment of up to $1,000 for eligible families and single parents and up to $500 for eligible individuals.
The amount you’re eligible for will be automatically calculated based on your income when you apply.
Benefit rates
Families and single parents
- $1,000 for eligible families and single parents with a net income of up to $125,000
- Reduced benefit amount for eligible families and single parents with a net income of up to $175,000
The benefit defines a family as an individual and their spouse or common-law partner, unless they are separated. Both people must be residents of B.C.
The benefit defines a single parent as an individual who is the principal caregiver to at least one child.
Individuals
- $500 for eligible individuals with a net income of up to $62,500
- Reduced benefit amount for eligible individuals with a net income of up to $87,500
What you need to apply
Net income from your 2019 tax return
You must provide your net income from your 2019 tax return. This number can be found on Line 23600 of your 2019 income tax return.
If you haven’t already filed your 2019 tax return, file to the Canada Revenue Agency as soon as possible.
There are multiple ways to file, including:
- Online, by paper or by phone
- Free tax clinics for people with modest income and a simple tax situation. Find a tax clinic
Social insurance number
When you apply, we’ll need your social insurance number, individual tax number, or temporary tax number to verify your eligibility.
Driver’s licence number
If you have a B.C. driver’s licence, you must provide your driver’s licence number.
Direct deposit information
The benefit will only be issued by direct deposit. You must have an account with a Canadian financial institution to receive the benefit.
If you’re on income or disability assistance and don’t have a bank account, a modified application will be available in the new year to help you apply for and receive the benefit.
Get your direct deposit information from a personal cheque or from your financial institution.
Be prepared to provide:
- Branch (transit) number
- Institution number
- Account number
More details, please go to https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/economic-recovery/recovery-benefit#didnt-file
Tax AID Direct Line-Local: 236-477-1717
Tax AID Direct Line-Toll Free: 1-877-940-7797
taxaiddabc.org 