CRA Makes It Easier For New Immigrants To Get Benefit Payments

 

he Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has introduced a game-changing solution: a streamlined online application process to get benefit and credit payments.

This initiative makes it easier for new residents to access financial support, such as the GST/HST Credit, Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) (no longer available), and Canada Child Benefit (CCB), without the hassle of mailing forms or visiting a post office.

Whether you’re a single individual, a couple, or a parent, these benefits can significantly ease the cost of living in Canada.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how the CRA’s new online application form works, who qualifies for these benefits, how to apply, and why this update is a vital resource for newcomers.

Relocating to Canada involves significant expenses, from housing and transportation to daily necessities.

The Canadian government offers a range of benefit and credit payments to help offset these costs, particularly for low- and middle-income residents.

These payments are calculated based on factors like your income, family size, and residency status, ensuring that support is tailored to your needs.

The CRA’s new online application form simplifies the process, making it faster and more accessible for newcomers to claim their entitled benefits.

Whether you’ve just arrived or are still settling in, these payments can provide a financial cushion to help you thrive in your new home.

GST/HST Credit: A tax-free quarterly payment to help individuals and families with low to moderate incomes offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

For the 2025 benefit year, single individuals could receive up to $519 annually, while married or common-law couples could get up to $680.

Families with children under 19 may also receive an additional $179 per child.

Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR): A refundable credit designed to offset the cost of federal pollution pricing. This benefit is now discontinued by the federal government after Mark Carney eliminated carbon tax.

This payment was available to residents of provinces where the federal carbon pricing system applied.

The final CCR payment for 2025 was issued on April 22, but eligible newcomers may apply for retroactive payments. Check with CRA.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB): A tax-free monthly payment for families with children under 18.

The CCB includes federal, provincial, and territorial components, providing significant support for parents.

For the 2025–2026 benefit year, the maximum annual payment for children under six will increase to $7,997 (up from $7,787), and for children aged six to 17, it will rise to $6,748 (up from $6,570).

These benefits are designed to help newcomers manage living expenses, from groceries to childcare, ensuring a smoother transition to life in Canada.

https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/new-cra-benefit-tool-for-newcomers-2025/