Victoria

๐Ÿ’ฐ

Financial Support

Overview of financial aid programs, tax benefits, and financial guidance available for immigrants and visitors.

Sections

1. Federal Financial Support Programs

The Government of Canada provides several financial assistance programs that are accessible to residents of Victoria. These include:

a. Employment Insurance (EI)

  • What it is: Provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own (e.g., layoffs) or are unable to work due to illness, pregnancy, or caregiving responsibilities.
  • Eligibility: Must have worked a certain number of insurable hours in the past 52 weeks and paid into the EI program.
  • Amount: Typically 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $650 per week (as of 2023).
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply online through the Service Canada website.
    2. Provide your Record of Employment (ROE) from your employer.
    3. Submit any additional documents requested.
  • Local Considerations: Service Canada offices in Victoria can assist with applications. The main office is located at:
    • Service Canada Centre: 1401 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC.

b. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

  • What it is: A tax-free monthly payment to help families with the cost of raising children under 18.
  • Eligibility: Must be a resident of Canada, have a child under 18, and meet income requirements.
  • Amount: Varies based on family income, with a maximum of $7,437 per year for children under 6 and $6,275 for children aged 6-17 (as of 2023).
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) when filing your taxes or by submitting Form RC66.
    2. Provide proof of residency and immigration status if applicable.
  • Local Considerations: Assistance is available at the CRA office or through local community organizations.

c. Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS)

  • What it is: Monthly payments for retirees, individuals with disabilities, or survivors of deceased contributors.
  • Eligibility: Must have contributed to the CPP during your working years (for CPP) or meet residency requirements (for OAS).
  • Amount: Varies based on contributions and years of residency.
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply online through the Service Canada website or by mail.
    2. Provide supporting documents such as proof of age and residency.
  • Local Considerations: Service Canada offices in Victoria can assist with applications.

2. Provincial Financial Support Programs (British Columbia)

The Province of British Columbia offers additional financial support programs for residents of Victoria.

a. BC Income Assistance

  • What it is: Provides financial support to individuals and families who are unable to meet their basic needs.
  • Eligibility: Must demonstrate financial need and meet residency and income requirements.
  • Amount: Varies based on family size and circumstances. For example, a single person may receive up to $935 per month (as of 2023).
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply online through the My Self Serve portal or in person at a local Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction office.
    2. Provide proof of income, assets, and expenses.
  • Local Considerations: The Victoria office is located at:
    • Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction: 908 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC.

b. BC Affordable Child Care Benefit

  • What it is: Helps families with the cost of child care.
  • Eligibility: Must have a child under 12 (or under 19 with special needs) and meet income requirements.
  • Amount: Varies based on income and type of child care, with a maximum of $1,250 per month per child.
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply online through the My Family Services portal.
    2. Provide proof of income, child care arrangements, and residency.
  • Local Considerations: Many licensed child care providers in Victoria can assist with the application process.

c. BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) Premium Assistance

  • What it is: Reduces or eliminates the cost of health care premiums for low-income individuals and families.
  • Eligibility: Must be enrolled in MSP and meet income requirements.
  • Amount: Full or partial premium assistance.
  • Procedure:
    1. Apply online through the Health Insurance BC website or by mail.
    2. Provide proof of income and residency.
  • Local Considerations: Assistance is available at Service BC offices in Victoria.

3. Municipal and Local Support Programs

The City of Victoria and local organizations provide additional support for residents in need.

a. Victoria Housing Reserve Fund

  • What it is: Provides funding to support the development of affordable housing in Victoria.
  • Eligibility: Typically accessed by developers and non-profits, but benefits low-income residents indirectly through increased affordable housing options.
  • Procedure: Contact the City of Victoria for more information.

b. Local Food Banks and Meal Programs

  • What it is: Free or low-cost food support for individuals and families in need.
  • Key Locations:
    • Mustard Seed Street Church: 625 Queens Avenue, Victoria, BC.
    • Our Place Society: 919 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC.
  • Procedure: Visit the location during operating hours to register and access services.

c. Victoria Disability Resource Centre (VDRC)

  • What it is: Provides support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, including assistance with accessing financial benefits.
  • Location: 817A Fort Street, Victoria, BC.
  • Procedure: Contact the VDRC directly for assistance.

4. Non-Profit and Community Support

Several non-profit organizations in Victoria offer financial and in-kind support to residents.

a. Salvation Army

  • What it is: Provides emergency financial assistance, food, and clothing.
  • Location: 2695 Quadra Street, Victoria, BC.
  • Procedure: Visit the location or call to inquire about available programs.

b. Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS)

  • What it is: Offers support for newcomers, including help with accessing financial benefits and employment services.
  • Location: 1004 North Park Street, Victoria, BC.
  • Procedure: Contact VIRCS to book an appointment.

5. Costs and Considerations

  • Costs: Most government financial support programs are free to access, but some may require you to pay taxes on benefits received (e.g., EI benefits are taxable).
  • Local Considerations: Victoria has a high cost of living, particularly for housing. Itโ€™s important to explore all available supports and budget carefully.
  • Language Support: Many services offer support in multiple languages. Contact local organizations like VIRCS for assistance if English is not your first language.

6. Key Locations for Assistance

  • Service Canada Centre: 1401 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC.
  • Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction: 908 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC.
  • Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS): 1004 North Park Street, Victoria, BC.
  • Mustard Seed Street Church: 625 Queens Avenue, Victoria, BC.
  • Our Place Society: 919 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC.

By leveraging these resources, residents and newcomers to Victoria can access the financial support they need to navigate life in the city. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!