Tax season is just around the corner. Many new Canadians may have questions about what kinds of benefits and credits they can access. Newcomers are encouraged to file their taxes and claim the benefits from the Government of Canada.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits and credits that newcomers can access.
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment distributed to eligible families. This benefit aims to help lower-income families with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. The amount of money you may receive depends on several factors, including:
- household income
- family size
- province or territory of residence
- marital status
- age of children
Families can apply for the CCB as soon as a child is born. Eligible families do not need to include this money in their income tax returns because this is a tax-free benefit. Filing your taxes every year will ensure that you continue receiving this benefit.
In addition, families with children under the age of 18 with a severe or prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions can apply for Child Disability Benefits (CDB).
GST/HST Credit
Depending on your province, you will need to pay a Goods and Services Tax or Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) whenever you make purchases. The Government of Canada provides a GST/HST credit to help individuals offset the cost of GST or HST. Individuals are automatically considered for this tax credit by filing their taxes. Eligible individuals will receive the tax-free GST/HST credit four times per year.
The GST/HST credit assists individuals or families that have lower incomes. As a result, single individuals that make more than $48,012 before taxes cannot receive the credit. On the other hand, a married or common-law couple with four children cannot receive the GST/HST credit if their net family income surpasses $63,412. Click here to learn more about the Government of Canada’s income levels.
Provincial & Territorial Benefits
Depending on your province or territory of residence, you may be eligible for unique benefits and credits. Click here to learn more about the benefits.
Disability Tax Credit
Individuals with disabilities need to pay for medication, special equipment, or personal support. As a result, these individuals are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). To qualify for the DTC, individuals must experience difficulty performing activities that affect day-to-day living. For example, if you have trouble walking, feeding yourself, hearing, or speaking.
Newcomer Fact Sheet
The deadline to file your taxes is April 30 every year. In 2022, the last day will be May 2 because April 30 falls on a Saturday. Everyone that is a resident of Canada should file their annual income tax. Failure to file taxes may result in additional fines or disruptions to receiving any benefits and credits. Click here to view a fact sheet for newcomers prepared by the Canada Revenue Agency.
More Newcomer Career Support
Skilled newcomers in Alberta and Saskatchewan can receive free career support from the experts at Career Loans. Connect with our counsellors and develop your personalized strategy to return to a fulfilling career in Canada. Furthermore, ask about our optional micro loans that can help you achieve your career goals.
