Navigate the landscape of Canadian government support programs. Discover potential programs and how to access them.
Get Your Free Eligibility GuideDisclaimer: This site provides general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Eligibility is determined by official government criteria.
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly payment available to most Canadians aged 65 and older who meet the residency requirements. It is a taxable program.
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) provides a monthly non-taxable program to OAS recipients who have a low income and are living in Canada.
The Canada Child Support (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age.
The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset all or part of the GST or HST that they pay.
Eligibility for most government support in Canada typically depends on factors such as:
Always refer to the official government websites for the most current and detailed eligibility criteria.
Applications for federal programs are primarily managed by two key government entities:
Many applications can be completed online, or you can find printable forms and mailing instructions on their respective websites.
In addition to federal programs, each Canadian province and territory offers its own unique initiatives tailored to the needs of its residents. Here are a few examples:
The OTB combines the Ontario energy and property tax credit, the Northern Ontario energy credit, and the Ontario sales tax credit into one payment.
This program provides financial assistance to eligible families with children in Alberta, helping with the costs of raising a family.
A refundable tax credit for low- and modest-income individuals and families in Quebec, based on housing, QST, and rural northern habitation components.
Always verify eligibility and application processes on the official provincial government websites.
Yes, students may be eligible for certain programs depending on their specific circumstances, such as the GST/HST credit if they meet income requirements, or provincial student aid programs. Eligibility often depends on factors like age, income, and residency.
For most significant federal and provincial programs, you generally need to be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a protected person. Some programs may have specific residency duration requirements within Canada. Always check the specific program's criteria.
It depends on the program. For example, the Old Age Security (OAS) pension is taxable, while the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and the Canada Child Support (CCB) are generally tax-free. It's crucial to understand the tax implications of any program you receive. Consult official CRA guidelines or a tax professional for personalized advice.
Payment schedules vary by program. Many federal programs like the CCB, OAS, and GIS are paid monthly. The GST/HST credit is typically paid quarterly. Provincial programs also have their own payment frequencies.
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