News release

Distributing Cheques, Provincial Government Mail During the Postal Service Disruption

Internal Services (June 2014 - May 2019)

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

Nova Scotians will be able to use Access Nova Scotia Centres and some government offices to drop off provincial government mail beginning Tuesday, July 12, if there isn't a settlement.

"We're prepared to deal with a mail service disruption to help Nova Scotians get the important government mail they rely on," said acting Internal Services Minister Mark Furey. "We've mailed some government renewal notices and cheques early and others will be available for pick up at locations across the province."

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

A list of the locations where government cheques or government mail may be picked up or dropped off, and details of other steps government is taking during the service disruption, can be found at www.novascotia.ca/postalservice.

People can also call toll-free 1-800-670-4357 for information and to find out the mail delivery location closest to them. In Metro Halifax call 902-424-5200.

Community Services clients should reach out to caseworkers and other staff they deal with in departments for information on their situation and where to pick up their cheques.

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

Most government offices are open Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Starting Tuesday, Access Nova Scotia Centres can be used to drop off government mail and are also open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings to 7 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 be found at novascotia.ca/postalservice .