Distributing Cheques, Provincial Government Correspondence During A Postal Service Disruption

Plans are in place to distribute provincial government correspondence and cheques if there is a Canada Post postal service disruption.

Nova Scotians who are expecting a cheque are encouraged to contact the department issuing it to ensure that it is ready.

Details of the steps government is taking during the service disruption can be found at http://novascotia.ca/postalservice .

People can also call Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. toll-free 1-800-670-4357 for information. In Metro Halifax call 902-424-5200.

Community Services will assess the situation on Monday, Oct. 22, to determine if client cheques will be sent to Community Services offices for clients to pick up. Clients should contact their caseworker or care co-ordinator if they have any questions about receiving their payment.

Nova Scotians are responsible to meet any financial obligations they have, to make payments to government.

In the event of a full-scale postal disruption, the public will be able to use 13 designated Access Nova Scotia Centres to drop off and receive provincial government correspondence. A further notice will be issued if this option needs to be exercised. They will be required to show a valid photo ID and/or an authorization note to pick up mail. Drop off would be available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pick up at these locations would be Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Many people are already using direct deposit to receive government payments. Nova Scotians who currently receive payments or benefits by direct deposit will not be affected. Information about signing up for direct deposit can also be found at http://novascotia.ca/postalservice .

Source: Release