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Bill C-30 Just Passed: 5 Ways It Changes Your Wallet in 2026

  Canadian Money Brief Bill C-30 just received Royal Assent — and it touches your gas tank, your TFSA neighbour the RRSP, your CPP statement, and your tax return all at once. Here are the five changes that actually matter for your wallet. 1. The Federal Fuel Excise Tax Is Suspended Until September 7 The federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel is paused from April 20 through September 7, 2026 — shaving 10 cents per litre off gas and 4 cents off diesel at the pump. The tax break also extends to aviation fuel. If you're road-tripping this summer, the savings show up automatically; you don't need to do anything to claim it. Just don't expect it to last past Labour Day weekend, since the suspension is scheduled to expire September 7. 2. Home Buyers' Plan Repayment Window Triples — From 2 Years to 5 If you used your RRSP to fund a down payment through the Home Buyers' Plan, the grace period before you have to start repaying yourself is extending from two years to five, ...

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Gas Prices in Ontario Surge to Highest Level Since August 2022

 

As the days grow warmer and people hit the roads for summer adventures, there’s one thing that’s not so hot: gas prices. Across Ontario, the price per litre of gasoline is expected to rise to approximately $1.79 this week, marking the highest gas price since August 2022. Here’s what’s fueling this surge:

  1. Carbon Tax Increase: The recent carbon tax hike is contributing to the rise in gas prices. As governments aim to reduce emissions, consumers are paying more at the pump.

  2. Geopolitical Tensions: Unrest in the Middle East has a ripple effect on oil prices. When tensions rise, so do the costs of crude oil, which directly impacts gas prices.

  3. Seasonal Fuel Blend Change: Semi-annually, the switch-over from winter to summer gasoline occurs. Summer blends are costlier due to chemical differences. While winter blends use butane for better ignition in cold weather, summer blends incorporate expensive alkylates to minimize environmental damage.

Energy analyst Dan McTeague predicts that gas prices will continue to climb throughout the summer, with the May 24 weekend marking the kickoff of high demand. Severe weather events and geopolitical factors also play a role in oil prices. However, McTeague suggests that consumers in the Greater Toronto Area explore nearby locations for slightly cheaper gas, as some stations have more competitive prices.

So, as you fill up your tank this summer, keep an eye on the rising numbers at the pump. And remember, while gas prices may be out of our control, our choices can still make a difference. 


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