Unlock Financial Support in Canada 2025

Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit to help individuals and families who are working and earning a low income. It includes a basic amount and a disability supplement. Eligibility is based on adjusted family net income and residency in Canada.

GST/HST Credit

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax that they pay. You are automatically considered for this credit when you file your income tax return.

Canada Housing Benefit (CHB)

The Canada Housing Benefit is a joint initiative with provinces and territories to make housing more affordable for low-income Canadians. Specific eligibility and application details vary by province, but the program aims to provide direct financial support to those struggling with housing costs.

Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

The Canada Child Benefit (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. Eligibility is based on income and the number of children in your care.

Provincial Income Support (e.g., Ontario Works)

Each province and territory offers its own income support programs. For instance, Ontario Works provides financial assistance and employment support to eligible residents of Ontario. Similarly, Alberta Income Support and BC Employment and Assistance serve their respective provinces. Eligibility and benefits vary significantly by region.

• Ontario Works
• Alberta Income Support
• BC Employment & Assistance

Ontario Trillium Benefit

The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is a refundable tax credit that helps Ontario residents with energy costs, property tax, and sales tax. It combines the Ontario energy and property tax credit, the Northern Ontario energy credit, and the Ontario sales tax credit.

Social Housing Programs

Provinces and municipalities offer various social housing programs to provide affordable rental housing for low-income individuals and families, including rent-geared-to-income options. Availability and waiting lists vary by region.

Check your provincial or municipal housing authority websites for local details.

Utility Bill Assistance

Many provinces and local utility providers offer programs to help low-income households with their electricity, natural gas, and water bills. These can include energy efficiency upgrades or direct financial assistance.

Contact your local utility companies or provincial energy board for specific programs in your area.

Key Eligibility Requirements

• Income Thresholds: Most programs have specific income limits based on your adjusted family net income, which the CRA determines from your tax return.
• Residency Status: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, and for some benefits, you need to have resided in Canada for a certain period.
• Legal Status: Eligibility often extends to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons, and sometimes those with specific work permits.
• CRA Notice of Assessment: Your Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is crucial. It details your income and is used to calculate many benefits. Always file your taxes on time!

Application Process

Applications can typically be done online through your CRA My Account or Service Canada Account. Some programs may require paper forms or in-person visits to Service Canada centres or provincial offices.

• Online Application: Most efficient method via government portals.
• Offline Forms: Printable forms available on official websites.
• Service Canada Centres: For in-person assistance and inquiries.
• Direct Deposit vs. Cheque: Opt for direct deposit for faster, more secure payments. You will need your bank account information.