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  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 The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) .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...
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Tax Season: How to Spot Scams and Keep Your Money Safe


As the tax deadline approaches, so do the scams. Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics to steal personal information and money. Here are some valuable tips to help you stay safe:

  1. Beware of Phishing Emails and Calls:

    • Phishing emails: Be cautious of unsolicited emails claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). These emails often contain malicious links or attachments. Never click on suspicious links or provide personal or financial information.
    • Phone scams: Scammers may call, pretending to be CRA agents, demanding urgent payments. They might threaten legal action or claim you owe money. Remember that the CRA will never ask for payments via Interac e-Transfer, bitcoin, prepaid credit cards, or gift cards.

  2. Ask Yourself Key Questions:

    • Is the communication threatening or urgent?
    • Does it request payment in unusual forms (e.g., bitcoin or gift cards)?
    • Is the sender or caller claiming to be from the CRA?
    • Trust your instincts and verify before taking any action.

  3. Stay Informed:

    • Keep up-to-date with CRA scam alerts. The CRA regularly shares information about common scams targeting taxpayers. Being aware of these can help you avoid falling victim to fraud.

Remember, protecting your personal information during tax season is crucial. Stay vigilant, and if something seems suspicious, verify its legitimacy before taking any action. Your financial safety matters! 


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