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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
Ottawa, the vibrant capital city of Canada, is stepping up its game to address two pressing challenges simultaneously: climate change and the affordability crisis. The recently launched “Better Homes” program aims to empower homeowners to retrofit their dwellings, making them more environmentally friendly while easing financial burdens.
The Better Homes Program: What You Need to Know
Interest-Free Loans: Ottawa homeowners can now apply for low-interest loans to fund home retrofits. These upgrades include replacing windows, adding insulation, installing heat pumps, or setting up electric vehicle chargers. The loan amount is tied to the home’s value, allowing borrowers to access up to 10% of their property’s value, capped at $125,000.
Long-Term Repayment: The loans are repaid over a 20-year period through property tax bills. This innovative approach ensures that the financial burden aligns with the benefits gained from energy-efficient improvements.
Green Transition: Residential buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on heating, cooling, and electrifying homes and office spaces, Ottawa aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The Better Homes program encourages homeowners to embrace greener alternatives.
Expert Guidance: The City of Ottawa has partnered with the environmental non-profit EnviroCentre to offer free energy retrofit planners to interested homeowners. These experts guide residents through the retrofit process, ensuring effective implementation.
Why It Matters
Climate Action: Retrofitting homes directly impacts Ottawa’s emissions. By enhancing energy efficiency, we move closer to achieving the city’s ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Affordability: The Better Homes program recognizes that affordability and sustainability go hand in hand. It empowers homeowners to make cost-effective changes that benefit both their wallets and the planet.
Community Engagement: Educating diverse demographics about available support is crucial. City staff play a pivotal role in bridging this gap and ensuring that every homeowner can participate.
As Ottawa pioneers this initiative, it sets an example for other cities grappling with similar challenges. The Better Homes program proves that tackling climate change need not come at the expense of affordability—it’s a win-win for all.
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