Financial Resources Available for Those Impacted by COVID-19

April 28, 2020

Nurses experiencing a loss in income may be eligible for federal benefit

BCNU members who currently hold a casual-status position(s) are reminded of the various COVID-19 financial relief programs that are available as employers across the province begin to adjust to pandemic staffing levels.

For individuals with lost income

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is available to those who have less than $1,000 of income in a four-week period. The CERB will pay out $2,000 per four-week period for up to 16 weeks, backdated to March 15. The benefit is available March 15 ? October 3, 2020.

To apply, go to the Government of Canada website.

BC Emergency Benefit for Workers
The BC Emergency Benefit for Workers is a one-time payment of $1,000 offered by the provincial government to those whose ability to work has been negatively affected by COVID-19. It is a top-up for those who already qualify for federal EI or the CERB. Applications are accepted starting May 1, 2020.

To find out more information and apply online, go to the BC government website.

For renters and homeowners

BC Hydro's COVID-19 relief fund applies a 3-month credit to BC Hydro accounts for customers who qualify. BC Hydro also offers bill deferral and payment plans for customers.
Provincial freeze on rental rates means that no rent increases are allowed in BC during the state of emergency, effective April 1; provincial ban on evictions during the crisis. Read more.
BC Temporary Rental Supplement provides up to $500/month toward rent, paid to landlords.
Mortgage payment deferrals are available for CMHC-insured loans. Learn more.

A complete list of financial supports offered by the federal government is available, including supports for those with children.