Parents across the province who use childcare will get a one-time payment of $561 per child.

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Children’s Services, announced on Wednesday they’re launching a new $108 million benefit to help families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Families are facing additional stress due to the pandemic and the uncertainty in the economy,” said Schulz.

To be eligible, parents and guardians must have paid for three months of childcare between April and December 2020. This includes licensed or unlicensed daycare, day homes, out-of-school care, and preschool.

The family’s household annual income must be $100,000 or less.

“We want to directly support these parents by alleviating the financial pressures they have faced this past year,” added Schulz.

Applications will be accepted from March 1 to 5. A MyAlberta Digital ID is also needed to apply.