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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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Trump Hush Money Trial: Opening Statements and David Pecker’s Testimony


Opening statements began today in the historic criminal trial of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The trial centers around allegations of hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election. Here are the key details:

The Charges

Donald Trump faces 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels. The payment was allegedly made to keep her silent about an extramarital affair with Trump.

Opening Statements

Attorneys for both the prosecution and defense delivered their opening statements. The courtroom was filled with anticipation as the trial commenced. Trump, the presumptive 2024 Republican nominee, has consistently maintained his innocence, denying any sexual relationship with Daniels.

David Pecker’s Testimony

The prosecution called David Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer, as their first witness. Pecker’s testimony was cut short due to the Passover holiday and an alternate juror’s dentist appointment. The trial adjourned for the day, but Pecker is expected to continue testifying tomorrow.

Transparency Measures

In an unprecedented move, the New York court system will release daily transcripts of the trial to the public. Chief Administrative Judge Joseph Zayas and First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George made this decision to ensure broad and continuous access to this high-profile case.

As the trial unfolds, the fate of the former president rests in the hands of an anonymous panel of 12 Manhattan residents. Their verdict will determine whether Trump is guilty of the charges brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Stay tuned for further updates as the trial continues.


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