Exciting Summertime Benefits period from CRA
(Disclaimer: The following article is only for information purposes and does not constitute any kind of tax advice. Although best efforts are made to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date, occasionally unintended errors and misprints may occur.)
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) administers several federal benefit and credit programs that are paid or adjusted throughout the year. During the summer months, certain benefit payments and program updates may occur based on eligibility and previously filed tax returns.
The information below summarizes selected CRA benefit programs and payment timelines based on publicly available government sources.
New Opportunities for Dental Care
The Interim Canada Dental Benefit provides financial assistance to eligible families with children under specific income thresholds. The second application period opened on July 1, 2023, covering dental care expenses incurred between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024.
Eligible families may receive up to $650 per child, subject to program conditions. Eligibility criteria and application details are available on the CRA website at Canada.ca/dental
Alleviating the Burden of Rising Prices
The Grocery Rebate was introduced as part of Budget 2023 to provide additional support to low‑ and modest‑income individuals and families. The payment was issued on July 5, 2023, alongside the regular GST/HST credit payment.
According to government information, the rebate was distributed to approximately 11 million Canadians, with total payments estimated at $2.5 billion. Additional details are available at Canada.ca/grocery‑rebate.
Year-Round Support for Low-income Canadian Workers
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) provides income support to eligible low‑income workers. Under the Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB), a portion of the benefit is paid in advance through quarterly payments issued in July, October, and January.
The remaining amount is reconciled when the individual files their annual income tax return. Program details are available at Canada.ca/canada‑workers‑benefit.
Expanding the Climate Action Incentive to the Atlantic provinces
Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island became eligible for the Climate Action Incentive payment during the summer period. Payments were issued between July 14 and July 21, in accordance with federal pollution pricing program rules.
Eligibility criteria and province‑specific payment amounts are available at Canada.ca/cai‑payment.
Annual Adjustments to Support Canadian Families
Each July, the CRA adjusts certain federal benefits and credits to reflect changes in the cost of living. These adjustments may affect programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the GST/HST credit.
Changes in personal circumstances, such as marital status or the birth of a child, may also affect benefit entitlements. Updated benefit information is reflected in the Notice of Redetermination, which can be accessed through CRA My Account.
Stay Informed for a Rewarding Summer
Key Summer Payment Dates
July 1: Applications open for period two of the Interim Canada Dental Benefit.
July 5: Grocery Rebate and GST/HST credit payment day.
July 14 - 21: Climate action incentive payments issued for residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
July 20: Canada child benefit payment day.
July 28: First quarterly payment of the Advanced CWB.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It does not constitute tax advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax legislation and administrative policies are subject to change.
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