May 11, 2026
“Tomorrow marks one year since I moved in with my partner. It’s a big milestone, and we’re planning a little celebration. One factor we hadn’t considered until a friend mentioned it is how this could impact my disability assistance. He said once you’ve lived with someone for more than 12 months, the ministry may consider you 'spouses.' I looked into it, and it seems that he’s correct. In fact, I learned that I have to submit a report to the ministry notifying them of the change. I dug up the blank report I received with my last assistance cheque and filled it out. I’m going to submit it promptly, as I understand there are deadlines involved.”
– Bethany, Saanich, BC
It's been some time since British Columbians had options for free, reliable information on rights and responsibilities when on welfare or disability benefits. We published three new web pages to fill this gap:
When you’re on welfare and when you’re on disability benefits provide clear, step-by-step guidance on reporting and other responsibilities.
These pages help benefit recipients understand what changes to their situation they have to report — from moving in with a new spouse, receiving an inheritance, or changes to any dependent family members.
For advocates, these two pages can effectively guide clients on what they have to do to keep getting benefits.
Challenging a welfare decision walks people through dealing with a denial or reduction in benefits. It provides options and practical tactics to help folks resolve this stressful situation confidently.
Also now available: print booklets on welfare and disability benefits
We're also pleased to announce two new print booklets to help British Columbians access income support. Applying for Welfare Benefits and Applying for Disability Benefits are now available. Both booklets include visuals and practical examples to make the application process easier to follow.
These step-by-step guides were adapted from content previously maintained by Legal Aid BC. They're designed to support individuals and advocates working with clients who need help navigating the welfare system.
Applying for Welfare Benefits walks through eligibility requirements, what documents are needed, and how to complete the application process. It covers the four types of assistance available in BC, income and asset limits, and available supplements for specific needs.
Applying for Disability Benefits explains the persons with disabilities (PWD) designation and provides guidance on applying for disability assistance. It covers who qualifies, medical requirements, and how to work with healthcare providers to complete the necessary forms.
"I was overwhelmed trying to figure out how to apply for disability benefits. The forms seemed impossible. A community worker gave me this booklet and sat with me while I read through it. Having everything explained in plain language without so much stuffy legal jargon made such a difference. I knew what to expect and what to do next."
– James, Prince George, BC
Check out our publications section to order print copies or download PDFs of these resources today.
Completing the circle
These resources round out our welfare and disability benefits coverage. British Columbians and advocates can also ask our chatbot Beagle+ questions about assistance benefits. This service is available 24/7 at beagle.peopleslawschool.ca.
Also, a big thank you to the advocates and lawyers at Together Against Poverty Society (TAPS) who helped to review this new content.
People's Law School is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing British Columbians with reliable legal information they can understand and use.