Cost of living
B.C. is a great place to live, but many people are facing big challenges from global inflation and high interest rates squeezing family budgets.
That’s why we’re taking action to ease pressures from rising everyday costs and making it faster and easier to connect to benefits and savings.
Find ways you can save and learn how we’re working to make life more affordable.
Access savings now
BC Family Benefit Bonus
Eligible families with children under 18 automatically get an extra $445 this year, on average, if they filed their 2023 taxes.
Lower child care costs
Most families save up to $900 per month per child for child care and out-of-school care costs.
Credit on your electricity bill
Households automatically get a $100 break on their electricity bills starting April 2024.
Connect to benefits and savings
Knowing where to find ways to save money can help, especially when life gets busy. People in B.C. now have a faster and easier way to connect to benefits and savings to help with daily costs through the BC Benefits Connector.
Supports for families with children
Families can access programs to help with the cost of child care, school or sports fees, get basic dental, glasses and hearing care, and start saving for post-secondary.
Supports for renters and homeowners
Renters are protected from high increases and can get help when facing an unexpected financial crisis. More people can now save thousands when buying their first home.
Supports for seniors
Seniors can access a variety of services to help with daily tasks, medical care and supports to remain independent at home longer.
Supports for people when they need it most
Access free counselling, legal aid or employment services, get free help to quit smoking, or apply for income or disability assistance.
Supports for business owners and entrepreneurs
Find out how we’re helping entrepreneurs save money so they can focus on growing and keeping their small business strong.
Help with home energy costs
Households will get a break on their electricity bills this year and can apply for rebates to cover the cost of making homes more energy efficient.
Transportation savings
Drivers will get an ICBC rebate this year and can save when buying an electric vehicle, transit is free for kids 12 and under, and we’re keeping ferry fares are affordable.
Health care savings
People in B.C. can access free birth control, one round of IVF, opioid addiction treatment. MSP fees have been eliminated and the Fair PharmaCare plan helps keep medication costs low.
Education and training savings
Students can access more funding to help with the education and training costs to start a new career. Interest on student loans have been eliminated.