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Canada's New Grocery Benefit Starts July 3 — How Much Will You Get?

  If you've been receiving the GST/HST credit, something is changing on July 3, 2026 — and it's actually good news. The federal government is replacing the old credit with a new program called the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) , and it comes with payments that are 25% larger. More than 12 million Canadians qualify. No application is required. Here's everything you need to know before the first payment lands. What Is the CGEB? The Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit is the federal government's replacement for the GST/HST credit, which has been around since 1991. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the new benefit on January 26, 2026, and it received Royal Assent on February 12 under Bill C-19. The legislation commits $11.7 billion in additional support to Canadians over six years — $3.1 billion immediately through the one-time June top-up, and $8.6 billion over five years through higher quarterly payments. The name change is deliberate — it signal...
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Maximizing Retirement Savings: The RRSP to RRIF Transition

 


As retirement approaches, a key financial decision for Canadians is whether to maximize contributions to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) before converting it into a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF). Here are the essential considerations:

  • Timing and Tax Benefits: Contributing to your RRSP can provide immediate tax deductions and allow your investments to grow tax-deferred. However, it’s crucial to evaluate whether these tax benefits align with your retirement timeline and income needs.

  • Conversion Deadline: You must convert your RRSP to a RRIF by December 31 of the year you turn 71. This transition is mandatory and marks the shift from accumulating savings to withdrawing income.

  • Withdrawal Strategies: RRIFs require minimum annual withdrawals, which increase with age. Deciding whether to withdraw only the minimum or more depends on your income needs and tax implications.

  • Long-term Financial Planning: Consider your overall retirement strategy, including other income sources like pensions and government benefits. A financial advisor can help tailor your RRSP contributions and RRIF withdrawals to your unique situation.

In conclusion, maximizing your RRSP before conversion can be advantageous, but it should be part of a broader retirement planning process that takes into account your financial goals and tax situation.

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