B.C. finance minister Selina Robinson outlined details of the B.C. Recovery Benefit during a news conference in Victoria on Tuesday, Dec. 9. (B.C Government)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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VICTORIA — Most British Columbians will be able to apply for and receive a tax-free COVID-19 direct deposit by the end of the year.

The pledge by finance minister Selina Robinson was made during a Tuesday, Dec. 8 news conference about the BC Recovery Benefit.

Minister Robinson said about 3.7 million eligible British Columbians will be able to apply online for the benefit starting on Dec. 18.

“Families making less than $125,000 will receive up to $1,000. Families, including single-parent families earning up to $175,000, will qualify for a reduced benefit.”

Single people earning under $62,500 annually will receive $500, while singles earning up to $87,500 will qualify for a reduced benefit, Robinson said.

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“We expect people will be able to receive a direct deposit within a number of days of their application,” Robinson said, who was confident cheques would be issued before Christmas.

Robinson expected a call centre would be established on Dec. 21 for people wishing to apply for the benefit over the phone.

An extra $150 a month between January and March, 2021 will automatically be provided to people receiving income assistance, disability assistance and to low-income seniors.

The BC Recovery Benefit is touted by the BC Government as a way to offer more financial breathing room to people hardest hit financially by the pandemic, while also encouraging more spending.

“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 about how we recover.”

Robinson said the program is estimated to cost the province between $1.6 and $1.7 million, including extra supports for British Columbians on social assistance and disability.

Eligibility benefits are based on net income in 2019 tax returns.

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