How is income assistance different on and off reserve?
Last reviewed September 2024 by the Clicklaw editors
Income assistance, also known as welfare or social assistance, is money and other benefits for people who need financial help. There are different requirements to qualify for a certain kind of benefit.
On reserve
Income assistance for people living on reserve comes from the Government of Canada through Indigenous Services Canada. Aboriginal Legal Aid in BC explains how to apply for income assistance on reserve.
Off reserve
Income assistance for people living off reserve in BC comes from the provincial government through the BC Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Legal Aid BC has information that explains how to apply for welfare.
Helpful information
- Legal Information for Indigenous People (Bella Coola Legal Advocacy Program): This guide has information on disability benefits and persons with disabilities in the chapter “Income Security.”
- On-Reserve Income Assistance Program (Government of Canada): This website explains who can apply for this federal program and how.
- LSLAP Manual: Welfare (Income Assistance) Law (PDF) (Law Students’ Legal Advice Program): The section on eligibility explains the process for both on- and off-reserve income assistance.
- Apply for Assistance (Government of BC): This page explains who is eligible, and how to apply online for income assistance off reserve.
Helpful services
- Find an Advocate (PovNet): This search tool helps you find legal advocates nearest to you.
- PWD/MNS Program (British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)): This service provides support for Indigenous individuals with disabilities, such as help with completing PWD (Persons with Disabilities) applications.
- Find more services.