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Payment of Assistance


Overview: February 13, 2006

Effective: February 13, 2006

Assistance is issued based on the amounts (rates) and eligibility criteria prescribed in the Employment and Assistance Act and Regulation and the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Act and Regulation.  This legislation together with ministry policies gives guidance to staff about providing assistance in special circumstances.

On a yearly basis, the ministry establishes a schedule of dates for issuing monthly assistance. Rates for income assistance, disability assistance, and hardship assistance are established in regulation and consist of amounts for support and shelter.  Direct Deposit is the mandatory method of payment to eligible recipients.  Exceptions are permitted in limited circumstances if approved by the ministry.

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires that the province provide a T5007 tax form to all persons who received more than $500 in assistance in a calendar year.  The ministry operates a special service office in the early part of each calendar year to respond to T5007-related questions from recipients.