COVID-19 affected workers can begin applying for $1K payment in April

The Ministry of Finance has provided more information on a popular aspect of the province's $5 billion economic stimulus plan.

On Tuesday, a ministry spokesperson said that residents who qualify for employment insurance will be able to apply for the $1,000 tax-free emergency payment in early April.

However, those payments likely won't make their way into British Columbians pockets until early May.

It is normal to be worried about COVID-19. Stress, anxiety, and sadness are common responses to the disruption and isolation many of us are experiencing. There are things we can do to deal with stress and support each other.

Tips & resources:https://t.co/NlQ4tYszAX #COVIDBC pic.twitter.com/GyP7UqvbhR

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) March 24, 2020

People who qualify for the money include workers who are sick, quarantined or have been laid off due to COVID-19, parents with sick family members, children or kids who must stay home because schools and daycares are closed, and who are self-employed and losing work or closing up shop due to the virus.

On Tuesday, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced 145 new coronavirus cases in BC, bringing the total to 617.

For the full update on COVID-19 in BC, click here.