frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1.	What is a Productive Choice?
	A Productive Choice is the name given to any activity that will benefit the community or develop your skills to be as independent as possible. Productive Choices can include training, upgrading, part-time employment and parenting courses.
2.	Why is my cheque different than last month's cheque?
	Cheques will change from month to month depending on your income, rent, fuel bills, and family size.
3.	Why is my cheque written to the store?
	Your community government has decided that all or a portion of the Income Support cheque should be paid directly to the local store of your choice. You will be given a credit at the store for the full amount of the cheque.
4.	What are overpayments and a repayment plan?
	Sometimes the amount of money given to you in a month is more than you should have received. These overpayments can be because not all income was properly reported, a bill was paid when it should not have been, or the benefits were miscalculated. Your Community Income Support Worker can work out a plan with you to repay any overpayments.
5.	Why does the money I get from working get deducted from my cheque?
	If you have dependents, the first $400.00 you make will not be deducted from your cheque. The Program only provides assistance to make up the difference between your Needs and Income. Once you make more than the Income Exemption ($400.00) your cheque will be reduced by that amount.
6.	Why would I bother working when the money I make gets deducted from my Income Support cheque?
	You have a responsibility to support yourself and your family the best you can. Working allows you to collect hours toward Employment Insurance.
7.	Why is the National Child Benefit deducted from my cheque?
	The full amount of the National Child Benefit is not deducted from your Income Support cheque. Only the Supplement portion is deducted. This money is used to pay for other benefits that you may be entitled to.
8.	Do I have to become involved in a productive activity?
	To continue receiving benefits beyond the second application you must begin to take advantage of training, education or work opportunities within your community, unless you are a Senior or unable to work.
9.	Can I take training?
	Yes, financial support for training is available through the Income Support Program or other programs. Speak with your Community Income Support Worker or Career Counsellor about the supports available.
10.	I could work but can't afford day care.
	A day care subsidy may be available. Your Community Income Support Worker can give you more information.
11.	I don't want to be on Income Support but have no skills to get a job.
	Your Community Income Support Worker can refer you to a Career Counsellor or help you decide how to get the skills you need.
12.	How will I support my family when I am taking training?
	If you have been approved for training under the Sivuniksaliurniq program and are living away from home, the Income Support Program will continue to assess your family's needs.
13.	I do not agree with my Community Income Support Worker's assessment. What can I do?
	You can appeal your Community Income Support Worker's decision to the local appeal committee. Your Worker can assist you.
14.	My daughter lives with her father, but I send money to him every month. Shouldn't she be included on my Income Support Application?
	No. Only children living with you and dependent on you are included. Your daughter can be included on her father's application.
15.	My son is 18. Can he apply for Income Support on his own now?
	Yes, once a child reaches the age of 18 he or she may apply on his own. Because Income Support is a program of last resort, your child will be expected to make a Productive Choice that will help him become financially independent.
16.	My husband has income. Does that count against my application?
	Yes, most of your family income is taken into account when you apply.
17.	I am a Pensioner but I have to support my grandchildren. Am I eligible to apply?
	Yes, everyone over 18 years old is eligible to apply. If your grandchildren are dependent on you for support they ill be included in the needs assessment. If you are the legal guardian of your grandchildren, you are also entitled to apply for the Canada Child Tax Benefits through your income tax return or by calling 1-800-387-1193 free of charge.