Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Toronto's Cooling Housing Market: Assessing the Effects on Canadians
Housing Market Concerns: Canadians React to Toronto's Falling Home Prices
In July 2023, Toronto's housing market experienced a second consecutive month of falling home prices, raising concerns among Canadians about the state of the national economy and their personal financial well-being. The real estate sector, which has been a significant driver of economic growth in recent years, has started to show signs of vulnerability, leaving homeowners and potential buyers uncertain about the future. While the declining prices may be a relief for some aspiring homeowners who were previously priced out of the market, existing homeowners may be facing negative equity, impacting their ability to refinance or sell their properties. Additionally, the cooling housing market may lead to reduced consumer spending and overall economic slowdown as Canadians tighten their belts and become more cautious about their financial commitments.
Mixed Reactions to the Housing Downturn: Challenges and Opportunities for Canadians
As Toronto's home prices continue to fall for a second month in July 2023, Canadians are experiencing mixed reactions to the shifting landscape of the housing market. Homebuyers who have been waiting for a chance to enter the market see this as a potential opportunity to purchase their dream homes at more affordable prices. However, there are concerns among homeowners who have invested heavily in the market and now face declining property values. Some may find themselves in negative equity situations, leading to financial stress and a reduced ability to invest or spend in other areas of the economy. On the other hand, the Canadian government and policymakers are presented with an opportunity to address the real estate market's sustainability and implement measures to ensure a balanced and stable housing sector. While the short-term impacts of falling home prices are causing unease, it may also be a chance for Canadians to reflect on the long-term housing affordability and devise solutions that benefit both buyers and homeowners alike.
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