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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
In response to the escalating security situation in Haiti, Canada has made the decision to temporarily reduce the number of Canadian embassy staff in Port-au-Prince. The move comes as gang violence continues to plague the capital city.
Key Points:
Volatility and Safety Concerns:
- The volatility of the security situation in Haiti has prompted Global Affairs Canada to take action.
- The lack of reliable supplies and the need to maintain an effective presence in a challenging environment have led to this staffing adjustment.
Essential Personnel Only:
- Canada will maintain a skeleton crew of essential personnel at its embassy in Haiti.
- These relocated staff members will continue to fulfill their duties from a third country, primarily the Dominican Republic.
U.S. Parallel Move:
- The U.S. also recently reduced its diplomatic presence in Haiti due to heightened gang violence.
- U.S. Marines escorted a portion of their diplomatic corps out of the country, while some remained to provide additional protection.
Challenges for Evacuation:
- Approximately 3,000 Canadian citizens are currently in Haiti, mainly in and around Port-au-Prince.
- Evacuating them poses challenges due to the closure of the main airport, which has been targeted by gangs.
Support and Caution:
- Despite the staffing reduction, Canada’s embassy will continue to support Canadians in Haiti.
- The public is advised to shelter in place and respect the curfew.
Canada remains committed to assisting its citizens and maintaining diplomatic engagement, even in the face of security risks.
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