Anúncios
Most of the money sits in a government account because nobody claimed it. The first three benefits are the ones most Canadian households qualify for but never apply for. Start here — if you only read one page, read this one.
1. The GST/HST Credit — Paid Quarterly, No Application Needed
The GST/HST Credit is a tax-free quarterly payment designed to offset the sales tax low- and middle-income households pay on everyday purchases. The payment is calculated based on your prior-year tax return and is sent automatically — no application required.
$496 per adult (single) or $650 per adult (married/common-law), plus $171 per child under 19. Paid in July, October, January, and April.
Most households who qualify never see the money because they didn’t file a tax return. Even with no income, filing a simple return triggers the credit. Service Canada uses the tax return to calculate the credit and sends the payment automatically.
2. The Canada Workers Benefit — Refundable Tax Credit for Low-Income Workers
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit that supplements earnings for low-income workers. It was expanded in recent years and now reaches more households than ever before, but the take-up rate is still low because many workers don’t realize they qualify.
$1,428 for single workers without children, up to $2,616 for families. Plus a $737 disability supplement for those who qualify for the DTC.
Eligibility is based on working income, not employment status. Even gig workers, contractors, and part-time employees can qualify. The credit is calculated when you file your tax return and paid out as a refund.
3. Grocery Support Through Provincial Programs
Several provinces have their own grocery support programs on top of the federal GST credit. Ontario has the Ontario Trillium Benefit, BC has the BC Climate Action Tax Credit, and Quebec has the Solidarity Tax Credit. Each is paid automatically to residents who file their taxes.
The amounts vary by province, but for a family of four in Ontario, the combined GST credit and Trillium Benefit can exceed $1,800 per year — entirely tax-free and paid quarterly.
Are you 65 or older? Continue →
✓ You will stay on this website • ✓ Free educational guide
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Benefit amounts, eligibility criteria, and program rules change frequently. Always verify current conditions with the relevant government agency (Service Canada, CRA, or provincial) before making any decision. Some links in this article are affiliate or partner links — we may receive a commission if you apply through them, at no extra cost to you.
