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British ColumbiaIncome support

Income Assistance

Last-resort monthly help for BC residents who cannot meet their basic needs and have little income or savings. It covers support and shelter costs.

Estimated value
Up to about $1,060/month for a single person
Check if I qualify →

Who qualifies

  • You must have very low income and few assets (generally under $5,000 for a single person), and be a BC resident able to accept work or an employment plan.

How to apply

  1. 1

    Apply online through My Self Serve

    Start your application online. You will answer questions about your income, assets, and housing.

    Go to application ↗
  2. 2

    Complete the process

    You may need to attend an orientation and provide documents. Support and shelter amounts are then paid monthly.

Documents you will need

  • Identification
  • Proof of income and assets
  • Banking information
Processing time
Varies
How often it is paid
Monthly

Good to know

  • A single person can keep up to $600/month of earnings without it reducing assistance.
  • Extra supplements exist for crisis needs, moving, and some health costs.

Often applied for together

BC Disability Assistance (PWD)BC Bus Pass Program
Official government page ↗
Last verified: September 1, 2026