Income Assistance

Income Assistance 

The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (MSDPR) is responsible for delivering key financial supports and services to individuals and families in British Columbia who are in financial need. One of its most well-known programs is Income Assistance, a last-resort financial support designed for people who are temporarily unemployed, unable to work, or in crisis. 

The Income Assistance is separate from disability assistance; it is often the first step for individuals who will later apply for the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) designation. Understanding this system helps home sharing providers support individuals before, during, and after they transition into CLBC-funded services. 

What Is Income Assistance? 

Income Assistance (IA) is a monthly financial benefit for British Columbians who: 

• Are between jobs or unable to find work 

• Have no or very limited income 

• Need short-term help while applying for other supports (such as Employment Insurance or PWD) 

It is not limited to people with disabilities, but some people receiving Income Assistance may go on to qualify for disability benefits through the PWD program. 

Basic Eligibility for Income Assistance 

To qualify, a person must: 

• Be a resident of British Columbia 

• Be 19 years or older (or 18 if transitioning from care) 

• Have little to no income or assets 

• Be actively looking for work (with some exceptions) 

• Be ineligible for other forms of income (e.g., Employment Insurance) 

• Individuals who have a medical condition, are over age 65, or are in special circumstances (e.g., fleeing violence) may be exempt from work requirements. 

What Supports Are Included Under Income Assistance? 

Individuals receiving Income Assistance may be eligible for several financial and supplementary supports, including: 

Monthly Financial Support 

• A basic support allowance for living expenses (e.g., food, clothing, personal hygiene) 

• A shelter allowance to help cover rent or housing costs (based on actual rent paid, up to a maximum) 

Example: A single person may receive around $935 per month in total (as of 2024), depending on their living situation. 

Crisis Supplements 

• Temporary assistance for people facing urgent needs (e.g., eviction, lack of food, emergency travel) 

• Helps cover costs like food, shelter, medical needs, or home heating 

Health-Related Benefits 

Even before Persons With Disabilities funding approval, individuals on Income Assistance may qualify for: 

• Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage 

• PharmaCare (basic prescription coverage) 

• Emergency dental and optical services 

• Medical equipment and supplies, such as orthotics, walkers, or incontinence supplies 

These health supports help bridge the gap for people who cannot afford private insurance. 

Employment and Training Support 

• WorkBC services: Access to job search assistance, career planning, and training 

• Wage subsidies and job start incentives 

• Education and training programs, including tuition and supplies support 

This helps individuals on Income Assistance find sustainable employment and move toward financial independence 

Transition to Disability Assistance (PWD) 

Many people begin with IA while applying for the PWD designation. During this transition, the Ministry can: 

• Help with documentation and medical reports 

• Maintain financial support while the PWD application is in progress 

• Support access to advocacy services if needed 

Once PWD status is granted, individuals move to the Disability Assistance program with expanded health and income supports.