Third Enhanced BC Family Benefit Arrives

BC families are receiving the final top up payment from the third enhanced BC Family Benefit payment.

“While global inflation is stretching most household budgets, it can be really tough for those already struggling to make ends meet,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Finance.

“Supporting people continues to be this government’s focus, and our new investments in Budget 2023 speak to that priority. For the families who feel like they are just getting by – and never getting ahead – we’re here to help.”

The monthly benefit was temporarily increased for families in B.C. for the first three months of 2023.

From January through March 2023 combined, the extra BC Family Benefit payments have provided as much as an additional $350 for a family with two children.

While it is an end to the temporary top-ups, Budget 2023 includes a new permanent 10% increase to the BC Family Benefit.

Starting July, parents will receive as much as $1,750 for their first child, $1,100 for the second and $900 for each subsequent child per year. Single parents can get as much as an additional $500 on top of the 10% increase.

Eligibility is based on income and number of children. The B.C. benefit is sent automatically to families who are eligible for the federal Canada Child Benefit and may take as long as 10 days to be deposited by the Canada Revenue Agency.

A third BC Affordability Credit is coming next month, helping about 85% of British Columbians with higher costs caused by global inflation, providing as much as $164 per adult and $41 per child, or approximately $410 for a two-parent family with two children.