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The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — And It's Paying 25% More

  Sunday, July 19, 2026 If you've relied on the quarterly GST/HST credit, that name is gone for good. Here's what replaced it, how much more it's worth, and whether you need to do anything to get it. For years, the GST/HST credit quietly landed in millions of Canadian bank accounts every three months — a modest, tax-free top-up meant to offset sales tax on everyday purchases. As of this month, that program no longer exists under its old name. It's now the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) , and the federal government has permanently increased the payment by 25%, locked in for five years. If you already qualified for the GST/HST credit, you don't need to apply for anything new. But you should know what changed, because the numbers — and the timeline — are more involved than a simple rename. What actually changed The CGEB was first announced by the federal government in January 2026 as part of a broader affordability push, and it became law with the passa...

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Federal Budget Aims for “Generational Fairness” Amidst Economic Challenges

 

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland unveiled this year’s federal budget, emphasizing a commitment to “generational fairness” for younger Canadians. The proposed economic blueprint, with projected spending of $535 billion, aims to address the country’s economic strengths while tackling a $39.8 billion deficit.

Key Highlights:

  1. Generational Equity: The budget seeks to balance the scales by raising taxes on those who have already benefited from Canada’s economic prosperity. This approach aims to create a fairer distribution of resources across different age groups.

  2. Spending Priorities: The $535 billion budget allocates funds to critical areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and climate initiatives. Investments in these sectors are essential for long-term economic stability.

  3. Deficit Management: While the deficit remains a concern, the government is committed to prudent fiscal management. The deficit reduction strategy will involve targeted spending cuts and revenue-enhancing measures.

  4. Economic Recovery: As the country emerges from the pandemic, the budget aims to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and support businesses. Investments in innovation, research, and development play a crucial role in this recovery.

  5. Sustainable Taxation: The proposed tax adjustments will ensure that the burden is shared equitably among different income groups. By targeting those who can afford it, the government aims to maintain fiscal sustainability.

In summary, this budget reflects a delicate balancing act between addressing immediate challenges and securing a prosperous future for all Canadians. As the economic landscape evolves, the government’s commitment to generational fairness remains at the forefront of its policy decisions.

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