More than 6,500 families will benefit from the change to equalize support rates and more than 4,300 families will benefit from the expanded earning exemptions, ensuring they can retain more of their income.

“For many people with disabilities living below the poverty line, it is critical that we maintain consistent financial support that empowers them to live their best lives,” said Graham Morry, executive director, Nanaimo Association for Community Living. “Ensuring equal PWD funding for individuals regardless of marital status is a meaningful step in the right direction.”

The changes will be automatic for eligible families, with no application required.

“We’re both excited about this change,” said James Chapman, speaking about his and his wife Julie’s lived experience. “It was harder to do stuff after we got married than it was before. It will be good to be treated fairly.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2017, the B.C. government has made five increases to income and disability assistance rates, the largest by any B.C. government.
• Since 2017 the rate for a single person is up $450 per month, a 74% increase.
• Budget 2025 invests $1.6 billion over three years to support more than 250,000 people receiving assistance.

Learn More:

To learn more about services for people with disabilities, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/services-for-people-with-disabilities

To learn more about the agreement between the B.C. government and the B.C. Green Party, visit: https://bcgreens.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Agreement-in-Principle.pdf

A backgrounder follows.